Reed Books

Outstanding book! Anyone interested in art will love this collection by Edward Reed. Awesome colors and so real looking! Pick it up you will not be sorry!

WOW oh WOW this book is just AWESOME!
When it came in the mail, I opened it quickly
and just starred at the wonderful art on each page.
The colors are so wonderful. When my husband got home,
I showed him and he was amazed at how the art
looked like photographs! Edward Reed has really outdone
himself with this wonderful collection of art. This book
is a must have for any art lover, you will not be disappointed.
I can hardly wait for the next book, hopefully soon!!!!
Now off to look at it again!

The art featured in this book is amazing. The pin-ups featured are a wonderful sample of the work Mr. Reed does. I own several of his prints and the book does them and his work justice. A must have for anybody who loves pin-ups with beauty, grace, class, and style.

You will love this book. From the classic style to new, this book has it all. There is a page in there for everyone who is a lover of pinups. Edward gives us a plethora of pinups to enjoy. This is a must have book for any collector.

This book is absolutely incredible. The portraits are so real that it is at times unbelievable that they aren't actually photographs. The other images are so colorful and beautifully drawn that at times they almost jump out of the page. This is a great coffee table book. The pages are thick and high quality and the cover is fantastic. This book is a treasure that I know that will be promiently and proudly displayed in my home.

Edward Reed is one of the top artists in his field and this book proves it. His work is an inspiration to aspiring artists and an absolute must have for collectors. He has really outdone himself with this latest book.

I highly recommend this book for people that love art and appreciate good art. You won't be disappointed!

Reviewed by Brianne Plach (age 9) for Reader Views (5/07)

So many times kids think that they are too little to be important. "The Biggest and Brightest Light: A True Story of the Heart" deals with this same topic. Amanda is afraid that since the new teacher has doctor in her name, she will give her a shot. Dr. Malko is a doctor of education but she does deal with a medical crisis. Amanda is just 6-years-old, but she makes an impact on her teacher, Dr. Malko, that will last both of them a lifetime.

Amanda sees a need in her teacher's life and does something to help her. Dr. Malko's daughter Elena is very sick. Amanda comes up with an idea of how she can raise money to help Elena and her family with all of the medical expenses. It's heartwarming to see the love this girl has for her teacher. Amanda is excited to get to meet the young Elena. Amanda has a big heart and it shows even more when she goes to work making cookies for the nurses in Elena's hospital. She enters a contest and wonders if she could win. Dr. Malko is very encouraging for Amanda.

Some teachers make a big impact on their students! This story shows that students can make a difference in the lives of the teachers as well. I have been encouraged and showed love by a couple of teachers in my life and I wish I could be like young Amanda who brightens her teacher's days. I am a few years older than the young heroine in this story, but I loved the story. The pictures by Amanda Perlyn bring the story to life. It's a feel-good story even though there are some sad parts in it. The fact that this is a true story makes me enjoy it all the more.

Note from Brianne's mother: "The Biggest and Brightest Light" brings out the light in a little girl's heart and caring for her teacher. Brianne loved the story and said that she wishes she could somehow bring more smiles to her favorite teachers. She already is expressing interest in being a teacher because she would like to encourage youngsters to be all that they can be.

This true story, of six year old Amada, demonstrates the impact a young child can have in making a difference in the lives of others through acts of kindness and loving concern.

Dr. Malko, Amanda's first grade teacher, told the children of her daughter's illness. Amanda was concerned when she learned of the hospital expenses. She thoughtfully considered how she might help. An idea came to her. She made and sold holiday ornaments to help provide for this need.

Dr. Malko expressed her appreciation this way: "...You know, Amada, when children do such special deeds, they are like angels...Thank you my little angel." This gave Amanda the best feeling that she had ever had.

As the stars shimmered in the nighttime sky Amanda glowed with pride knowing that no matter how old you are, you are old enough to make a difference in someone's life.

This wonderful story will tug at your heart as you share it with your child. Children ages four through eight will be delighted by the eye-catching color illustrations created by Amanda Perlyn.

"The Biggest and Brightest Light" is inspirational and full of seed thoughts, of kindness, and thoughtfulness, to sow and nurture in your child's mind.

NOT ONLY WILL THIS BOOK TOUCH YOUR HEART, BUT, OVER AND OVER AGAIN IT CONTINUES TO REMIND US THAT ONE SMALL GESTURE OF KINDNESS, CAN LAST A LIFE TIME!!!!....IT IS BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN AND WONDERFULLY ILLUSTRATED...A MUST READ FOR ALL AGES...THANK YOU MARILYN AND AMANDA FOR SHARING YOUR STORY!!!

The Biggest And Brightest Light: A True Story Of The Heart is a rich and meaningful picture book about the greatest treasure anyone can share. Written by Marilyn Perlyn, The Biggest And Brightest Light features very simple yet moving illustrations by Amanda Perlyn. Six-year-old Amanda wants to help her teacher with a problem, but this problem is so big that it cannot be solved... for the teacher's daughter is very sick. Sometimes the best thing one person can do for another is simply to be there, and care. More than gifts or pleasantries, the biggest and brightest light is love, compassion, and the warm feeling one gets from helping someone in need, a lesson that bears remembering in this timeless tale about making a difference.

This heartwarming book is a beautiful and true story that will inspire parents and children alike. It is an effective tool in helping children to understand how to help others. It is rare to find a book such as this that appeals to all generations and it will definitely become a treasured gem in any childs book collection.

The problem with many "brain teaser" books is that they all have many of the same questions. That is not the case with this book. The questions in this book are challenging and fun. Makes for a great book to keep at the office to break up the monotony of the work day.

Excellent book, especially for those who are preparing for a case interview, I would recommend it for everyone. Easy reading and superb explanation!

I've alredy been thru the typical i-banking and consulting interview rush and I only wish I had this book back then. Not only will it introduce you to the type of questions you may be asked, it will also get you to start thinking in a smarter way. I highly recommend this book.

hi! i just wanted to let everyone out there whos interviewing for any investment banks or other jobs that this book will definitly help you out. the author worked in the best investment banks on wall street and gives you common interview questions that will have you very prepared. also, the book is really interesting, and just really fun to read through.

The puzzles and brain teasers presented in this book have been enormously helpful for my recent interviews! i was astonished when top banks asked me the EXACT same puzzles that were illustrated in this book! i HIGHLY recommend this book to ANYBODY who is interviewing at any banks, it will help you tremendously!

In this high tech age, it is so easy to forget the really important things in life. Jim Reed's observations are heartwarming, nostalgic and sometimes hilarious. Reed has the ablitity to take the reader out of the humdrum of everyday life and transport him or her to a more peaceful time. His choice of words actually makes the reader he or she is actually there. It is truly a rare and wonderful gift to be able to give meaning to the most simple things in our world, but Jim Reed has it. There is no doubt that it belongs in every home. Chris Lee (author of COLLEGE PLANNING IN THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY)

A southern journey through the eyes of a gentle, wise man. It was a fun and thought-provoking trip.

Faye Burgess of Birmingham, Alabama, just read DAD'S TWEED COAT and emailed this message to author Jim Reed: "I can only say that if indeed 'this small book evaporates into the ozone layer' then the ozone layer will only be improved by its addition and perhaps you will have solved the rain forest predicament once and for all...as far as I'm concerned DAD'S TWEED COAT is a Necessary Necessity (see page 116) for reminding us what is real and worthwhile in all of us. Thanks for writing it. It was and is...a good Reed."

I've received these notes about DAD'S TWEED COAT:

"DAD'S TWEED COAT was like dipping into my childhood...thank you for sharing these vignettes with me. I hope our paths cross again." --Bishop John Shelby Spong, author, HERE I STAND

"DAD'S TWEED COAT was, from beginning to end, one of the loveliest reading experiences I've had in a long time. Intriguing thoughts, eloquently expressed." --Robert Inman, author, CAPTAIN JANUARY

"It's a lovely tribute and fun to read." --Howell Raines, author, MY SOUL IS RESTED

It's gratifying to receive nice comments from readers such as these! --Jim Reed (jimreedbooks.com)

Jim's gentle, but funny, personality shines through every page. Best of all, Jim has a fresh and unusual way of perceiving the world. He can find comfort, joy, and meaning in the smallest aspects of everyday life. When I finished reading, I felt uplifted, comforted, and enriched by a new sense of how to see the meaning of life!

Having lived in Southern Africa and talked to people who had knowledge of those events this is a good account of what went on for a historical point of view. I would recommend reading the entire series. A very good read!

I am a 49 year old man who has recently taken up reading after an absence of too many years. I have found that Wilbur Smith's books have filled the void of recent changes in my lifestyle. Although I started with Angry as The Sea some ten years ago, I cannot read Mr. Smith's novels quickly enough. Each thought or phrase summons me into it's very existance. My only regret is that memory will not allow me the pleasure of re-visiting Mr. Smith's adventures.

This book is, beleive it or not, right on par with Smith's other breathtaking adventures like Birds of Prey, Monsoon, Blue Horizon, Seventh Scroll etc. Only River God can be considered better (and even that is close). None of the books in the Courtneys of Africa series or the others in the Ballantyne series can even come close to this book. A truely marvellous adventure yarn and one of the overlooked gems in the entire genre, A Falcon Flies is a masterpeice which, if had been published after Smith became internatioanlly famous (that is, after River God), would have done as well as any of Smith's other monster bestsellers.

I must say as a fan of Wilbur Smith, this book captures anyone's imagination from the first page to the last and it leaves you wanting to start on the next one in the series. As an African and Zimbabwean in which most of this story takes place I am left with no option but to salute Mr. Smith. He is a briliant researcher and an accurate writer of our historical stories even though he calls them fiction. Some of the facts are so true that you really feel you're in that age. He gives vivid descriptions of the Ndebele state as if he was there during that time. I have no problem rating it 5 out of 5!!!

Wilbur Smith is my favorite author, and "A Falcon Flies" is one of his best. You are introduced to the Ballentyne's, Maj. Zouga Ballentyne and his sister, Dr. Robin Ballentyne as they search Africa for their missing father, the famous missonary and anti-slavery cruscader Fuller Ballentyne and have the bad luck to travel to Africa on board the ship of Mungo St.John, who it turns out, is a infamous slave trader himself...With that breathless start, you would expect action and lots of it, and you won't be disappointed. Duels, attack by slave traders on the Ballentyne safari, and ship to ship battles with thundering broadsides are but some of what is in store for the reader. Smith has never been afraid to write a strong woman character, and Robin Ballentyne certainly qualifes, coming close to unsympathic, being saved mainly by her constant concern for human life, never hestiating to place her own in jepoardy to help the ill or injured, but always sure of being right and never hestiating to say so. Neither is Zouga perfect, being more concerned with making the expedition profitable,from gold and ivory, than finding his father.All of Wilbur Smith's books are of the "keep you up late reading it" variety but "Falcon" is ones of his best, which makes it one of THE best, period.....

Good book for any helicopter pilot. My husband crashed his helicopter last summer, luckily he survived but the ship was destroyed. This book helped him get back into flying and learn from his and others experiences. As his wife, I liked the book also.

My daughter's boyfriend requested this book for Christmas. I was very happy to find it and receive it so quickly. It is exactly what he wanted! Thank you Amazon!

WOW!! I am a Helicopter Pilot w/just over 200hrs logged.This book has so much life saving information on what could happen to you when you don't cross all your " T's " .This book is so easy to read , its perfect for students & professional Helicopter Pilots.If you don't want to hear the truth about what could happen to you,then this book is not for you. I can't tell you enough how I wish that all Helicopter flight schools and the FAA should make this book manatory to read.This book could SAVE YOUR LIFE.

Well,i had been looking for a book related to helicopter accidents and causes until i saw "Fatal Traps For Helicopter Pilots".The dramatic accident rate of helicopter operations always took my attention and made me ponder over the subject.This book gives vast information of helicopter aerodynamics and inspects the accident "cause" and "result" logic,rather than connect the dots theory.It does not matter if you are a novice or a veteran pilot,you had better have a look at the Fatal Traps For Helicopter Pilots,because i am sure that you would find something from yourself in this book.
Bottom line;Helo pilots must read this book in order to save lives,because the experince which is the most valuable asset in aviation world comes to you with a reasonable cost.

First off, the idea of dissecting accidents to learn what/what not to do is a great idea and something that rotorcraft pilots definitely miss out on--Whyte should be praised for taking the initiative to do this. On the downside, too much of the book is just raw accident reports (or Whyte's summary of them) that offer either the most basic details or minutiae that makes sense only to the manufacturer's engineers. At some points it's frustrating to read through these not knowing where they're going, or trying to understand technical details only to end a chapter without getting any insight from them. Whyte could have vastly improved this book by taking the time to cut through the crap in these reports and focus on the details relevant to the point he's looking at, although the page count would have been much smaller...

On the flip side, the value in this book comes from:
1/ It is specific to helicopter flight and operations
2/ Whyte's sorting thru all the accident reports that illustrate all the bad stuff you read about in your training. In addition, some (but not all) of the illustrations and explanations go far beyond what you'll find in other books (eg, the FAA's book), making it a good complement for what you'll need during your training. For example, Whyte's book has the best explanation of VRS/SWP that I've seen.

I would have liked to see more focus on R22-specific issues (the SFAR 73 accidents) and a chapter on personnel safety at landing sites would have been a nice addition. Operation-specific hazards (eg, long-lining, operations over water or dense forest), discussion of the relative risks in different ships, and an analysis of how a situation could have been averted or recovered would have made this book a grand slam. Don't get me wrong, all student pilots should read this book at some point in their training, but I hope Whyte will significantly improve the content in later editions.

This book has more information for gaff-rig sailors and builders than other books half of it's size.

My book arrived in excellent condition and in a timely manner.

Assumes basic knowledge of sailing. Great for those who are embarking on gaff rig sailing. Entertaining,easy reading. A how to book rather than a historical one.

A great resource for the person who owns or dreams about owning a Gaff Rigg Cutter. The book details rigging and nomenclature,and charectoristics of sailing gaff riggs.

Tom Cunliffe has written a wonderful book, and I always have a hard time deciding if this is the ultimate resource on the gaff rig, or if another author's]Handbook should take that honor. I have both, and find them very valuable. If you are restoring or building a boat with a gaff rig, you probably will want to get both too. The review I wrote for my boat building site... said:

"At first glance, there seems to be a lot of historical information on boats using the gaff rig, but what Cunliffe has done is describe nearly every imaginable type of craft using a gaff rig. Then, selecting the gaff cutter, he continues on to describe the rigging details of every aspect of that sail plan. Because the cutter has every rigging feature the other types have, you immediately identify those rigging features you need to consider. Its a unique and very readable way of introducing details that otherwise might be dry and frankly, boring, if included again and again in every chapter on a specific type of boat. Cunliffe also includes other information: sail trimming and sailing tips, etc., all with a dose of humor."

At the time I wrote that, Hand Reef and Steer was between printings. I'm pleased to see that it is again available. Highly recommended!

This and the other great book on gaff rig, Leather's "Gaff Rig Handbook" seem to take turns being unobtainable. Grab both while you have the chance. Cunliffe's is the easier of the two to read, with more modern illustrations and color photographs. The text is not so dense, not so richly detailed, but don't sell it short - it contains a tremendous amount of information. Cunliffe covers all the bases, explaining why gaff rig is so incredibly practical, efficient, and safe, why it was so highly thought of, what led to its demise. He covers all aspects of sailing, sail handling, heavy weather tactics, all in a highly readable and enjoyable style. This is a user's manual for working gaff rig, one that will make you ache to be out there. Plus, hopefully, it will lead to the building or restoration of more gaff rigged sailboats, which can only make the world a better place.

If you are new to gaff rig and want to rapidly become a hopeless devotee, then get Cunliffe. Once you are a lost soul and there's no hope for you, get Leather to fill in all the detail you'll be thirsting for.

Very comprehensive. Obviously written from the heart by someone who has been there and knows what he's talking about.

Leadership is a challenging subject to teach; however, LTC Campbell based on his experiences as a follower and a leader clearly exemplifies the true definition of a leader. His personal accounts are thought provoking for the leader in training or for the experienced leader who has the courage to make positive changes! "Leadership is a behavior, not a position" was the most profound concept that I learned from LTC Campbell. Thank you Sir!

I'm an Army Officer and combat veteran. This book is informative as well as entertaining. The personal stories that LTC Campbell shares are truly inspirational. Persons in leadership/supervisory positions at all levels can benefit from this publication. Thank you Dr. Campbell, this is a jewel!!

My greatest comment is, finally. This material is a must for all in leadership/managerial positions. Very easy reading and quite difficult to put down. You can actually feel where the author is coming from through his true to life experiences, combat and peace time. Leadership that was developed from many different levels. Definately not a book filled with fancy quotes but a true training tool. I would suggest it to be mandatory reading at all levels of leadership. You will be surprised what is caught not taught. This is THE book.

What an entertaining book! Spencer Campbell is the "Dr. Phil" on leadership. Down to earth, full of personal experiences based on a life that makes Hollywood seem dull, this book addresses many of the questions all of us have asked ourselves at one time or another. Ever had a boss whom you just shook your head and wondered how in the world did he/she get in that position? Chap 2 addresses those questions. At the end of each chapter the author summarizes his key points. Plain speaking, this book is very easy to read. It should be required reading in all military schools and ROTC classes or for that matter any class that focuses on leadership. We are giving this book as a graduation present to young adults who are about to begin their professional lives.

Reviewed by Olivera Baumgartner-Jackson for Reader Views (3/07)

Keetha DePriest Reed's "More Culinary Kudzu: Recollections and Recipes from Growing Up Southern" is part cookbook, part collection of wonderful essays on food, family and growing up Southern and altogether great fun. Reading her book made me want to get up and cook and at the same time do nothing and not feel guilty about it.

A deceptively slim volume of 172 pages, this book is packed with immense insight, great wisdom, yummy recipes and sweet reminiscences. As refreshing as a glass of freshly brewed iced tea on a sweltering hot summer day anywhere in the South, this is a book that you will want to keep - either in your kitchen cupboard for the recipes or by the bedside for the great, uplifting essays crafted by Ms. DePriest Reed. After reading and enjoying the book greatly, I also read the author's bio and I was immensely surprised that she is only in her thirties. Such wisdom in somebody so young is rare and I'd venture to say that she owes it at least in part to her obviously great upbringing.

The book is divided into six sections. The first five deal with the four seasons - plus an additional one, the holiday season. Appropriate recipes are interspersed with musings on food, family, friendship and life in general. Lots of great childhood memories as well as photos of author and her family illustrate well how celebrating food is an intricate part of living in the South. The recipes range from very simple to quite involved and cover all kind of dishes, from beverages to salads, main dishes, desserts, canned foods and more. The sixth section is an Appendix - where one can find more interesting information on various websites, places of interest, books and a brief author's bio.

I tried two of her recipes out already and found them to be easy to follow, easy to make and delicious. More of them are on my to-do list, as is getting the first Culinary Kudzu book Ms. DePriest Reed wrote and published earlier.

I would very highly recommend "More Culinary Kudzu" to anybody who enjoys good food and good writing as well as to anybody who wants to find out more about the South. As for me, I only have one question left - how do I get invited to one of their family reunions?

If I could borrow one line from the writer that epitomizes this book, it is "Food is a powerful link to family members and friends, certainly to memories." This is the thought that pervades this second offering from Keetha DePriest Reed. From her grandmother's kitchen in Houston, Mississippi, to the test kitchens at the Viking Range Corporation and at all points in between, Reed once again captures the essence of food as a universal tie that binds us all. With intriguing tales of childhood rememberances and life experiences paired with wonderful recipes and helpful cooking tips, this book makes a wonderful resource and an entertaining read.

Let's get this straight before I even begin. I'm not a cook. Oh, I do cook, but I'm not "a cook." The thing about "More Culinary Kudzu, is that even I can perform the recipes and they "actually" turn out--like they're supposed to. In my family, we love dips and nibble foods, and this cookbook is filled with scrumptious recipes like sweet potato chips, hot crab dip (yum), and my husband's favorite, roasted pecans. And though author, Keetha Reed, admits to "not" liking grits, my family loves them and the garlic cheese grits are awesome. "More Culinary Kudzu" is a great gift item and a must for the cookbook collection, with lots of humor and stories of the south.

If you've read Culinary Kudzu, you know Keetha DePriest Reed has captured the spirit of the Mississippi Delta and its love of family, friends, storytelling and tradition through the universal language of--food, of course, where every occasion is marked by its signature recipe. Now, in More Culinary Kudzu, Reed captivates us again through the love-language of recipes. More Culinary Kudzu isn't just a cookbook...it's memoir, temptation, and celebration. Reed guides us through the seasons with dishes so delicious they've become a standard for holiday tables, and she traces community ties by the donor's name on a recipe card. In this day of fast food, little time, and grocery store cakes, More Culinary Kudzu reminds us that any day can be an Occasion when it's shared with love and food. More Culinary Kudzu is a must-have for your own cookbook collection, and one that can be shared with a child, your sister, your mother-in-law, your best friend...oh, just anybody. Go ahead, read More Culinary Kudzu, make a list of friends, and pick out your own day to celebrate...make it a tradition. Keetha DePriest Reed will show you how.

Believe me, this book would make the perfect gift for any woman you need to buy for - whether it's a gift exchange at the office, something for your mother-in-law, or a last-minute present for the neighbor who picked up your mail while you were away.

The book has cute reminiscences combined with practical recipes and decorating tips - all presented with quintessential Southern charm. The author, a former caterer, lives in the Mississippi Delta; this book combines her skill in hospitality with her journalistic abilities.

The book is divided into 5 sections: Sweet Summertime, Delta Fall, The Magic Season, Cold and Rainy, and Spring Scrooge. Thus, the tales and recipes are all basically arranged by season. For example, the "Sweet Summertime" chapter starts with a strong showing of those Southern classic recipes - grits, biscuits, cornbread and hummingbird cake. Meanwhile, the "Magic Season" chapter features fried turkey.

I have tried four of the recipes already - red velvet cupcakes, Christmas fruitcake cookies, garlic cheese grits and sausage-cheese balls. All four were quite tasty! Overall, the recipes in the book are all quite easy (except maybe those ice box rolls!) and are recipes that I would definitely be willing to try - and maybe adopt as my "own."

The sketches throughout the book also added a nice visual appeal to the book. The appendix included some of the author's favorite places, books, and sources for Southern foodstuffs. Enjoy!

I was up to 3:00 am reading Stefi and then woke up at 5:30 am to continue reading. I literally could not put this book down! This is a book that will definitely stay with me. The ending was a complete surprise and makes me want to read the book again. I gave this book to a close friend this morning simply saying, "You MUST read this." Stefi is literally one of the best books I have ever read!

Sue K. has done well in her career, at least. At age forty-two she is a production executive, a job that most people would find rather glamorous. Despite success in her work, Sue knows the rest of her life is a disaster, especially in the romance department. Sue can blame part of this on her more than difficult mother, but she must shoulder part of the blame herself. Her somewhat cynical nature and sharp wit have been a definite factor in driving off Matt.

Just when Sue feels she has reached a new low spot in life, she meets Stefi. Stefi is only twenty-four and not someone Sue would usually pick for a friend. There is just something about Stefi that is irresistible with her joy and love of retro clothes and music. Stefi inspires Sue to try new paths in life, but suddenly disappears just as Sue sets out on a life-changing adventure.

Sue leaves for India with Jake and learns almost as much about herself as she does about both the beauty and tragedy of the cities she visits in that ancient land. The author is quite adept at mixing humor and pathos. You will never feel quite the same about eating pork or pigs, in general , after reading about Sue's adventures in Goa. Counterpoint to laugh out loud moments, there are scenes that are heartbreaking in their depiction of the effects of abject poverty. The author is able to pull on the reader's heartstrings without becoming maudlin.

STEFI is told in diary form, a device that has become quite popular in recent years. This is no angst-filled BRIDGET JONES DIARY, though. The author is able to show Sue's rawest emotions with this type of narrative and the reader views the other characters as they influence Sue on many levels. Sue's year long journey of self discovery is bound to resonate with female readers of many ages. We all know, deep down, that choices not made and paths not taken, may have more impact than poor choices.

This novel shows the author's superb storytelling ability in being able to mix romance, fun, adventure and poignancy into a riveting plot. This is a tale that will haunt you and perhaps have you re-think the choices you make in your everyday life. Through Sue and Stefi, the reader can see the ripple effect our lives may have on others even in seemingly inconsequential matters.

STEFI is Ms. Paschall's dazzling debut novel. She does have an impressive writing resume already in American and international television and has written four trivia books. Ms. Paschall was born in London and still writes features for the Sunday Express in England. She currently lives in the United States. I look forward to future novels by this talented author.

Sunday Express Book Review (London,England)
Reviewed for the Sunday Express
by Michelle Stanistreet
Reviewed March 25,2007

Sue K is 42 years old and having a bit of a mid-life crisis. She works in production, is great at her job, but is rarely appreciated; she's still reeling from a break-up with Matt, the man she thought was "the one"; and her mother is a total nightmare. Just at her low point, she meets Stefi - a 24-year-old, vibrantly-dressed hippie who makes a beeline for Sue at her local gym. It's as if they've always known each other. Stefi seems so tuned in to Sue's moods that she always seems to appear when Sue needs her - armed with a bag of tortilla chips, a bottle of wine, a shoulder to cry on and some sassy words of advice.

Despite the age gap, Sue is open and willing to take a lead from the vital young woman who enters her life in a whirlwind and quickly takes her in hand. "We were getting like an old married couple after one week of association," notes Sue in one of the diary entries that make up the novel.

Stefi seems to unleash Sue's alter ego - a new, improved Sue with more self-confidence, get-up-and-go in spades and a zest for life that had long deserted her. Experiments with clothes, men and work all follow.But leaving London provides the key to Sue's transformation. Egged on by Stefi, she jacks in her job and fulfils her lifetime's dream to travel around India.

Her journey there, taking in Delhi, Goa, Calcutta and the Himalayas, is wonderfully evoked. India charges Sue with energy and a thirst for life that she's never experienced before. It truly becomes a life-changing experience for her when she works as a volunteer alongside the nuns running Mother's Teresa's Home for the Dying in Calcutta. The scenes here are heartbreaking and genuinely moving.

Throughout the book, the relationship between Stefi and Sue is brilliantly captured, their exchanges fizzing with effervescent humour, making for several laugh-out-loud moments. Both seem to be seeking experiences that have been denied them, although Stefi remains something of an enigma. The ending has an intriguing twist that keeps you guessing (almost) to the final pages. Witty, acerbic and moving, this is a novel that is hard to put down.


I fell in love with this book!
Coffee Time Romance
Reviewer: Kathy
5 Cups (Highest Rating)

Sue Katz is a forty-two year old production facility manager with an easygoing manner and a penchant for being a yes woman. Because of this, Matt her boyfriend of three years proclaims he can no longer put up with her indecisiveness and leaves her. Heart sick and aimless, she buries herself in her work and starts frequenting a gym where she meets Stefi. Unable to resist this tornado of a woman, Sue strikes up a friendship with her, but is plagued by Stefi's vague answers to almost all of her questions, so she does not push the issue. Growing up with a mother who did not quite know what to do with a child made this come naturally. Will she ever stand up for herself?

Stefi is vague in a hippie type way, always wearing colorful clothes more suited to the seventies than the new millennium, marching to a different drummer on any and all issues. She loves pushing the envelope where Sue is concerned. She challenges Sue to get back into the dating world and demands to hear all of the details, living vicariously through Sue's escapades, sexual and otherwise until Sue has had enough for the time being. When Sue starts to assert herself, Stefi goads her into trying new and different things just to test Sue's resolve. Finally, Stefi brings up the subject of Sue's job, and questions her about where she is ultimately going, making Sue realize that comfortable and safe is also boring and meaningless. Convinced, by Stefi that life is meant for the living, Sue and Stefi set out to fulfill a dream by traveling to India. What ultimately happens is straight out of every woman's dreams.

Ms. Jenny Paschall has written a "laugh out loud" novel. I became enthralled from page one and found myself laughing hysterically at the descriptions of Sue's mother; I thought she was describing mine for a while! Her wit is sharp and on point; her observations of the male species is dead on perfect. Sue is a typical easygoing, "easy to get along with" type with whom I identified. Stefi is a mystery until the very end.... and the conclusion does not disappoint. I fell in love with this book!

"....absolutely should not be missed!!"
Reviewed by: Jeri Neal
The Romance Reader Connection
Rating: 4 ½ (Superior/Excellent)

Sue is an attractive, accomplished forty something production executive, living in London, who seems to have a particularly difficult time with her romantic endeavors. When the book begins she has just broken up with Matt, her long term lover and best friend. She meets Stefi at the gym and Stefi is the opposite of Sue.

Stefi is in her 20's, dresses like a modern day flower child, and is evasive about her life and work. She quickly becomes Sue's best friend and they share many evenings over tortilla chips and wine. Stefi blows into Sue's staid, boring existence like an earthquake, shaking and cracking her foundation of conservative beliefs about what she can and cannot do with herself.

Curiously, Stefi seems to disappear just as Sue is pushed into something new and exciting, such as three months spent traveling in India. Stefi coaches and pushes from the sidelines but it is Sue who is exhibiting the courage to change her life.

Readers are privy to Sue's disastrous choices in male partners and catch a glimpse into the difficulties inherent in finding a male companion when you are "of an age". It's an understatement to say that Sue struggles with men and relationships.

This book grows on you and becomes more compelling with each page. The descriptions of India are exquisite and clear. It is so evident that the author writes what she knows. The most compelling reason to read this book occurs in the last 20 pages of this book and absolutely should not be missed. It is so unexpected and surprising that even the most jaded reader will be shocked at the outcome.

Told in the style of a personal diary kept by Sue, this book offers a glimpse into a woman going through subtle but powerful life changes The plot will carry readers through Sue's international and interpersonal travels. Highly recommended!

Reviewed by Audrey Larson for RebeccasReads (3/08)

Who or what is Stefi? When she constantly shows up at 42-year-old Sue's workouts in the gym in London, practically forces friendship on her and subtly (and not so subtly) encourages big changes in Sue's life, one wonders.

Stefi doesn't give her phone number or address, and seems to live on tortilla chips and wine. Stefi dresses and acts like a 70s hippie, is supposedly 24-years-old, but also has insights and wisdom to give Sue. Stefi first appears in Sue's life after Matt, her boyfriend of several years breaks up with her.

Sue's next love interest is a doctor, who was also her gynecologist. They have fun for a while, but he is a cheapskate, and the way Sue dumps him is incredibly funny. Stefi encourages Sue to change jobs, and embark on a journey to India, where Sue meets an old school friend, has new job opportunities, and discovers that life in India is far different than anything she has experienced before.

The old friend, Jake, becomes Sue's next love interest, and also her guide to the ways to get along in India. Jake became very rich at an early age, and had enough money to live the rest of his life without working again, if he wishes. Jake wants to marry Sue, although he is at least 5 inches shorter than she is, and her mother makes all kinds of snide remarks about it. Sue's mother is twice widowed and never seems to have a nice word to say to Sue. She is extremely harsh and mean-mouthed, hates sex, and never hesitates to say so. Stefi doesn't like Sue's mother or Jake. In fact, strangely, Stefi doesn't like any of Sue's love interests except Matt.

Stefi is supposed to join Sue on her trip to India, but at the last minute she says something came up, and she will join her later. So, Sue embarks on her journey to and in India alone until she meets Jake. The teeming masses, heat, humidity, lack of adequate plumbing and sanitation, plus the diseases and poverty change Sue's outlook on life. Volunteering at a hospital for sick and dying people, one of whom Sue becomes close to, opens her eyes to life. When one young woman whom she attends in the hospital becomes snarling and angry when dying, because of all her lost opportunities, Sue realizes what a good life she really has.

Along the way, in India, Sue has encounters with two funny pigs, yaks, a tour bus with bald tires, and sees the Taj Mahal and other beautiful sights, as well as the slums, poverty, and overpopulation. Sue also faces danger as a taxi driver drives in the opposite direction from where she wants to go, and then tries to assault her. Sue literally has to run for her life.

Sue's production work on a documentary proves her skills and abilities, and consequently she receives even better work opportunities. She also makes more money than she ever had before in her life. When Sue is back in London, with a better job, she has Stefi redecorate her apartment with much brighter colors and fabrics from India. When Jake becomes difficult upon their breakup and refuses to give her plant back, Sue retaliates by swiping his Indian bedspread. It becomes the focal point of her newly redecorated bedroom. Sue realizes that Stefi is her best friend ever, and the end of the book is surprising when Matt re-enters her life and Stefi is revealed for what she really is.

Jenny Paschall has written a book with humor, frank language, sexuality, and glimpses into life in London and India. "Stefi" is an intense, interesting read.

Reviewed by Debra Gaynor for Reader Views, 12/06

Sue is an executive with a nightmare mother and a broken relationship, when she meets Stefi, a free spirit, hippie, and 70's flower child. Their personalities are like night and day yet their friendship grows. The duo plan a trip to India but at the last minute Stefi leaves a note saying there is a family emergency and that she won't be joining Sue, right away. When she does arrive in India she becomes a little jealous "Well, look at you. Back in London you were a spineless wonder who wouldn't say `Boo' to a goods, and now you're `Miss International Traveler', fearless and intrepid, just bulldozing your way across continents, helping the dying and putting the world to rights."

This book will keep you in stitches. Jenny Paschall's humor is contagious. I've never laughed so hard in my life. The thought of Sue dating her stingy GYN, telling off Jeremy in front of everyone and Stefi selling pubic-hair and not quite used panties left me with tears running down my face I was laughing so hard. Each chapter gets funnier and the main characters more endearing. Yet beneath the humor lies a strong more serious side of this book.

The cover of "Stefi" is the perfect introduction for this book. The storyline flows smoothly. Ms Paschall is an extremely talented author. The plot has a twist that I never saw coming. Just when I thought I knew the direction this book was taking it twisted a totally new way. It's hard to believe this is her first novel; I eagerly await her next one. I highly recommend this book to those that enjoy really good fiction. Well done Ms. Paschall.