Product Description
The Study Guide, as used with The Choice Is Always Ours, facilitates a serious study of the religious Way. The Guide enables one to answer such basic questions as: what the religious Way is; what its conditions are; what it implies about the nature of man, of God, of the universe; whether it really "works"; and if so, something of how it works religiously and psychologically.

The Choice is Always Ours was designed to help the seeker cut through theories about religion, set aside specified beliefs and dogmas for a time, and penetrate to the single core of the psychological-religious processes related to personal meaning and to Life itself.

The Study Guide may come to serve as a "fill-in" for a "religious director" aiding the individual seeking in solitude; for two or three seeking together; or for larger groups. Therefore, it has been found a helpful supplement to personal depth analysis and group therapy. ... Read more

Product Description
This digital document is an article from Semana, published by Spanish Publications, Inc. on August 24, 2001. The length of the article is 754 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Una burla a la hipnosis.(The Curse of the Jade Scorpion)(TT: Hypnotic satire.)(TA: The Curse of the Jade Scorpion)(Artículo Breve)(Reseña)
Publication: Semana (Magazine/Journal)
Date: August 24, 2001
Publisher: Spanish Publications, Inc.
Page: 40

Article Type: Artículo Breve, Reseña

Distributed by Thomson Gale ... Read more

Product Description
A return to the world of the Warlands...

Bethral, a beautiful warrior, and Ezren, a quick-witted storyteller, are confronted with a civil war and a tribe or warriors with their own code of honor and their own rules of pleasure and partnership. To stay alive they must learn new customs, confront their enemies, and conceal Ezren's fiery power. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Third in the Palins series: return to the War Plains
"Destiny's Star" is the third book in the Palins Saga, a new fantasy series set in the same Universe as the author's "War Prize" trilogy. The first two books in this series were set in the Land of Palins, many miles to the South East of the Plains and on the other side of a mountain range, but in this story two of the main characters from the Palins Saga find themselves transported to the Plains.

The books of the Palins saga should if at all possible be read in the right order: all three published to date have surprise endings, and if you read a later book first it will give away the endings of the earlier ones.

The first three books in this series are

1) "Dagger-Star (Star Series, Book 1)" (also published as "Red Gloves")
2) "White Star"
3) This book, "Destiny's Star"

I strongly suspect from the ending this book three that there will be at least one more.

You do not have to have read the "War Prize" trilogy to understand or enjoy this series. There was no direct overlap between that trilogy and either "Dagger Star" or "White Star." However, this book being set in the Plains, there is some overlap of places and characters: the hero and heroine of "Warprize" are referred to quite a few times by other characters in this book but do not themselves appear in it. If you are interested in reading the War Prize trilogy it consists of

1) Warprize
2) Warsworn
3) Warlord


The hero of "Destiny's Star" is Lord Ezren Silvertongue, who had been the leading storyteller of the land of Palins. When he refused to use his skill to support the trannical former regime, despite being tortured within an inch of his life, they cut out his tongue and sold him at a slave market as dogmeat. Rescued and partially healed, his body has become affected by wild magic which he cannot control, and which the Mages of Palins regard as extremely dangerous.

The heroine of the story is Bethral, a former mercenary and partner of "Red Gloves" who was the heroine of the first book. It was Bethral who rescued Evren in the first book and nursed him back to health (with help from High Priestess Evelyn, whose healing magic restored Evren's tongue but could not entirely repair his formerly beautiful voice).

This book starts by recapitulating an incident which took place towards the end of the previous volume, "White Star." In the courtyard of the royal palace, Evren Silvertongue meets one of Orrin Blackhart's men, who turns out to be a warrior-priest from the plains. Their meeting causes the wild magic inside Evren to flare out of control with explosive force, threatening the lives of everyone in the courtyard.

As the only way to save those lives without killing Evren, Bethral quickly persuades the Kingdon's two most powerful mages, High Priestess Evelyn and her father Merlon, to open a portal to somewhere as far away as possible. Then Bethral grabs Evren, puts him onto her horse, and rides with him through the portal.

Bethral and Evren find themselves in the land of the War Plains. It is a very different place to Palins, and a very dangerous place, both because of the different customs of the people and because the tribes of the plains are on the verge of civil war.

Some of the people of the Plains offer hospitality to Bethral and Evren with honorable intentions, but a faction of the warrior priests have a very different agenda ...


A charming, easy to read fantasy of magic, love, and honour. Quite funny in places, tender and moving in others.

I can recommend this series.

Part Romance, Part Fantasy
I've never been a fan of the romance genre, but Elizabeth Vaughan has me hooked with her romantic fantasies. Destiny's Star is Book #3 of her "Star Series" and Vaughan takes us back to the Plains from the "Chronicles of the Warlands Series." Avid readers of her work will find this enjoyable and newcomers will be instantly pulled into her wonderful world.

Destiny's Star is a classic love story about one talespinning guy who can't properly sit a horse, and one warrior girl who's shy with men but not with running them through. Swords, magic, love, war, political intrigue, and an unforgettable setting, you can hardly go wrong. Vaughan kept my attention hooked so that I forgot to eat dinner once her book arrived. Definitely worth the read.

From one trilogy to the next
I first read the Warprize/Warlord books and then looked for more books from the author and read this trilogy.Until this book, I did not realize that the books were set in the same universe as they take part in distinctly different lands.This book really pointed it out to me.Although I do feel that this book can also stand alone, it added a dimension when having read all of the previous books, and I am waiting (impatiently) for the next book in the series.I like how her hero/heroines are not all cookie cutters of each other, but have distinctly different personalities, and her woman are strong.I've read a lot of books that say the woman can kick butt and then some but then in the scenes the man has to solve their problems or because the woman is strong it causes trouble because she tries to prove her strength.Her h/h both have their own strengths and both get to use them to further the plot along.

Fantastic Fantasy
Destiny's Star is a fantastic, richly-detailed, exhilarating, and satisfying conclusion to Elizabeth Vaughan's second fantasy trilogy.Not only are the characters complex and flawed and compelling, the world of the Plains is rich and beautiful, the emotions portrayed true to heart, and the dialogue set forth credible and entertaining.Most important to me as a fantasy fan, however, is that the legends and the customs and the practices and the beliefs of the tribes on the Plains are so incredibly interesting, yet so incredibly believable, because they clearly flow from the landscape and the hardships that the tribes face.Sometimes it makes me sad that Ms. Vaughan's books have been marketed and shelved as Paranormal Romances.Although I understand the marketing demographics of that decision by the publisher and the romance scenes are as strong as any, I feel bad that the readers of more conventional fantasy adventures will never get the chance to discover one of the best, most richly detailed, and most internally consistent and rewarding fantasy worlds ever constructed, bar none.(That's right, Tolkien fans, I said "bar none.")

Vaughan at her best!
Elizabeth Vaughan keeps getting better and better as a writer. I was drawn in from the first book she wrote--Warprize, and I have read every one since. I had thought White Star was the best in this particular series (loved the cover, especially), but Destiny's Star tops it. My favorite character is Ezren. ... Read more

Product Description
Thirty tantalizing stories written especially for couples, from the queen of the naughty bedtime story.

In Naughty Bedtime Stories and Bawdy Bedtime Stories, Lloyd spun stories sexy enough to keep readers up all night. Here are thirty more, all packed with heady eroticism-and guaranteed to turn up the heat...

In one tale, it's a would-be author's first jab at an erotic short story. Fortunately, the luscious heroine he creates shows up in the flesh, and just in time to help. In another, a flesh-and-blood man creates his perfect cyber-woman. And with her expert hands and mouth, she fits him like a glove. And in a third, paper-thin hotel walls are all a lonely businessman needs to fulfill his fantasies, when he has neighbors so vividly-and loudly-fulfilling theirs.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Inspiring!
Joan Elizabeth Lloyd's The Spicy Bedtime Companion: Erotic Stories And More is an unusual collection of erotic stories, bawdy limericks, and odd bits of sexual trivia. The stories are quite short, perfect for reading just before bedtime. And many of them are practically blueprints for how to experiment erotically with your partner.

There's an element of style to many of the stories that I think make them particularly perfect for this purpose, but that will also limit the book's audience in other ways. Some folks like their erotica unrealistic and fantasized--no mess, no fuss, no worry over the little details of reality. Most of Lloyd's stories include and address all these little details that make them seem so utterly down-to-earth and realistic. For a couple looking for inspiration that's probably perfect; for someone looking for sanitized erotica it's not going to appeal.

I was less fond of the limericks than of the stories; when they were good they were spot-on, but many of them just felt forced & flat to me. The trivia, on the other hand, was often fascinating. (Why no, I didn't know that a rattlesnake mating can last up to 22 hours!)

These stories are quite short, surprisingly non-fanciful, and oddly "realistic". I think they're perfect as evening inspiration for loving couples!


[Review book provided courtesy of the publisher] ... Read more

Product Description
In Palins, a land in the throes of upheaval, Lady High Priestess Evelyn leads a rebellion against an unjust usurper. But when she is taken prisoner by Orrin Blackhart, their clashing souls will be forged in desire, redemption, and glory. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Sequel to "Dagger Star," in a new series in the War Plains Universe
"White Star" is the second book in a new fantasy series set in the same Universe as the author's "War Prize" trilogy, but with most of the action taking place hundreds of miles away in a Kingdom torn by civil war and known as the Land of Palins.

These stories should if at all possible be read in the right order: all three published to date have surprise endings, and if you read a later book first it will give away the endings of the earlier ones.

The first three books in this series are

1) Dagger-Star (Star Series, Book 1), alsopublished as "Red Gloves"
2) This book, "White Star"
3) Destiny's Star

I strongly suspect from the ending of book three that there will be at least one more.

You do not have to have read the "War Prize" trilogy to understand or enjoy this series. That story has no direct overlap with "Dagger Star" or "White Star" although in one of the last scenes of this book, one of the minor characters turns out to be a Warrior-Priest from the Plains.

In the third book two of the characters in this story do visit the Plains, which is how we know that the events of this series are happening on the same world and at about the same time. If you are interested in reading the War Prize trilogy it consists of

1) Warprize
2) Warsworn
3) Warlord


The title of this book is a reference to the White Star which is visible in the ring worn by the heroine of the story, High Priestess Evelyn, who serves the Goddess of Laughter and is a healer. Despite her gentle disposition, Evelyn was so horrified by the tyranny of the Regent and High Baroness Elanore that she could not stand aside. She went from rescuing children who the Regent would have murdered as a threat to his regime, to building an organisation to protect them, which eventually led to the full-sale insurrection which she persuaded the warrior known as "Red Gloves" to lead in the previous book.

Each of the books in this series has a section towards the end which sets up the following book. Towards the end of "Dagger Star" Evelyn was betrayed to High Baroness Elanore, captured, and fell into the hands of Elanore's Lord Marshall, Orrin Blackhart, known as the "Scourge of Palins."

Having fallen into the hands of one of the most notorious figures in the Regent's regime, Evelyn fully expected to be raped, tortured, and executed. The last thing she expected was to be treated with respect ...

Orrin Blackheart has risen through the ranks in the service of his High Baroness, to whom he had originally pledged loyalty in the belief that he was protecting the people of the Black Hills. By the time he realised that she has become a monster, his hands are red with innocent blood. Sick and tired of killing and atrocities, he continues to serve only to protect his own people and to temper High Baroness Elanore's crimes as best he can.

Soon the tables are reversed, and it is Orrin who is the prisoner awaiting execution. The last thing he expected was to be given a chance to redeem himself by undoing some of the harm he has helped to create ...


A charming, easy to read fantasy of magic, love, and honour. Quite funny in places - the banter between Blackhart and his men, who are surprisingly golden-hearted rascals, had me snorting with amusement more than once. At other stages the story can be tender and quite moving.

I can recommend this series.

Great star story !
I've so enjoyed this story that I'm waiting impatiently for the next one !I always like stories where the Good and the Evil battle and of course, where the Good wins! This story is about redemption and love, enjoy it !

Great book
Loved this one even more than the first in the series - Dagger Star. I love her writing. It is not rushed at all.
If you haven't read the Warlord trilogy by this author, I highly recommend it. It is even better than this series.

Superb Fantasy Adventure and Romance
Elizabeth Vaughan's romantic characters don't sit around watching the windswept moors and pining for one another.Instead, they are in the thick of the action, fomenting revolution, charging into battle, delving into foul dungeons, and saving farmers and villagers from the ravaging odium (animated dead).The passions of the characters are just as intense as their actions, resulting in a book that has plenty of suspense, plot twists, political intrigue, sexual tension, and heated action (in every sense).Moreover, there is true depth and emotion here--the souls of the characters being far from the black and white that their clothing might suggest.

Once again, Elizabeth Vaughan has created a vivid portrait of strong, believable men and women living and struggling for power and justice in a strange and complex fantasy world.White Star is especially for readers that want a balance of heart-pounding action adventure and heated passion, loss, lust, and romance, with plenty of unexpected turns along the way.Highly recommended!

Donald J. Bingle, author of GREENSWORD

White Star Reviewed By Twolipsreviews.com
White Star by Elizabeth Vaughan, is about a high priestess named Evelyn and Orrin Blackhart, an evil man who was the war leader to a sorceress who had created an undead army. With their evil sorceress missing in action, Orrin was in charge of her people and the foul undead. Evelyn was captured and held prisoner by Orrin. While she was captive she began to realize that Orrin was not as evil as everyone believed and Orrin felt a strange attraction to the woman he held prisoner. But was there room for romance in the middle of a war?

White Star was not much of a romance, instead it was more of a fantasy. There was too much background information that slowed it down and some things that should have been explained were not. In the beginning they were using a strange word and at first I thought it was a new word that I would have to look up in the dictionary, but practically twenty pages later after the same word was used multiple times I finally found out that they were talking about these undead creatures. So some things were not explained very well, or not explained soon enough. Personally I did not like this story, it was too much of a fantasy story, and it was too slowly paced. Not only that but, for half the book, Orrin and Evelyn are separated. Sure they occasionally think about each other, but that's not much of a romantic plot. So for over half the book there is no romance at all. ... Read more

Product Description
After captivating readers with her Chronicles of the Warlands trilogy, Elizabeth Vaughan now returns to that world with a beguiling tale of daggers and destiny, a cold and beautiful mercenary known as Red Gloves, and Josiah, a lone fighter emerging from the torched fields and razed farms of his homeland. All Josiah knows about the mysterious woman is her dagger-star birthmark, a sign that she is destined to free the people from a ruthless usurper's reign of terror. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (31)

First in a new Fantasy series set in the world of the War Plains
"Dagger Star" - which has also been published as "Red Gloves" - is the first book in a new fantasy series set in the same Universe as the author's "War Prize" trilogy, but with most of the action taking place hundreds of miles away from the Plains where those stories were set. This story takes place many leagues South East of the Plains, in a Kingdom torn by civil war and known as the Land of Palins.

This series should if at all possible be read in the right order: all three published to date have surprise endings, and if you read a later book first it will give away the endings of the earlier ones.

The first three books in this series are

1) This book, "Dagger Star" (also published as Red Gloves))
2) White Star
3) Destiny's Star


I strongly suspect from the ending of book three that there will be at least one more.

You do not have to have read the "War Prize" trilogy to understand or enjoy this series. That story has no direct overlap with "Dagger Star," although in a later book two of the characters in this story do visit the Plains, which is how we know that the events of this series are taking part on the same world and at about the same time. If you are interested in reading the War Prize trilogy it consists of

1) Warprize
2) Warsworn
3) Warlord


This book tells the story of a mercenary named for the Red Gloves which she never removes, and which her partner Bethral warns people never to ask about.

Looking for work, Red Gloves and Bethral arrive in the land of Palins to find it devastated. The rightful King, his Queen, and their heir had all died suddenly a few years before. The head of the merchant guild has been declared regent by the council of High Barons. (And High Baronesses - though there are one or two male chauvinists in the story, this feudal country enjoys a high degree of equality of opportunity between the sexes. Hmmm. Does help the story work.)

But shortly after taking power, the regent and his main ally, the High Baroness Elanore of the Black Hills, launched a treacherous attack on those baronies which they thought might threaten their control over the Kingdom. They devastated the land while killing or enslaving the people, or something even worse.

When Red Gloves and Bethral arrive in Palins, the civil war which followed appears to have burned itself out. They stay with a goatherder, Jonas, who lives alone apart from a group of very odd goats - a man to whom Red Gloves is strongly attracted, until he sees her birthmark, and insists that it marks her out as "Chosen" - and therefore a war leader who will restore justice to the land of Palins. She thinks he must be soft in the head.

Meanwhile, Bethral rescues a slave who has had his tongue cut out and been beaten and tortured within an inch of his life. Jonas calls a healer priestess to tend to the slave's wounds: at which point it becomes clear that Jonas and the slave are both far more than they appear and that the idea of Red Gloves leading a rebellion may not be so fanciful after all ...

A charming, easy to read fantasy of magic, love, and honour. Very funny in places - for example, there is a scene where a craftsman is making a special suit of armour to display Red's birthmark which sends up the Bronze Bra Guild/Chicks In Chainmail genre. Sometimes quite moving: especially when we find out why Red Gloves never removes them.

I can recommend this series.

Profit or passion
First, cards on the table.I am an (almost) 50 year old male so take that into account with this review.

Over this side of the pond the books was released with quite a striking cover, it appears to me that in the US the cover is more aimed at female readers (I notice that a lot - are the majority of fantasy readers in the US female?!) But anyway, our UK cover was very striking and although I had never heard of Beth Vaughn, I bought it.

Two female warriors ("Sword Sisters") take refuge in a barn only to find that a birthmark on one identifies her as a 'chosen' - someone that will lead the kingdom from despair into prosperity once more.Initially this is rejected but eventually Red comes around to liking the idea and joins the revolution.

The author builds some strong and interesting characters with some very powerful female leads and there is a gentle vein of humour that runs through the book.Perhaps a fraction too much romance and nocturnal activity for your average male reader, but the rest makes up for it.

There are some story elements not properly explained or followed through and the 'reveal' about the reason for the red gloves was a little of an anti-climax (although it did help explain Red's character traits), so this does have minor weaknesses but that may be my male perspective.

I found this an easy reading page turner and although perhaps more geared towards the lady reader, I have to confess I quite enjoyed it.I must be going soft.

Wonderful World and Characters
Red Gloves aka Red, a mercenary with secrets and Bethral, her sword-sister, travel to Palins, a land suffering from a corrupt government. They hope to find mercenary work. Considering the land is in such turmoil they figure their services would be most appreciated, but that proves not to be the case. Finding shelter with a man who they assume is no more than a poor goatherder, Red learns some very interesting things regarding the birthmark below her breast, and Josiah the goatherder is more than he lets on.

I really enjoyed this first book. Although, I was not too fond of the leading protagonist, Red. There were times that she seemed a little too uncompassionate and just blunt. And the way she is with Josiah at times grated on my nerves. But I think having a wonderful supporting cast of characters standing beside her, making Red not always the center of the story, made her character flaws tolerable. As much as I had trouble connecting with Red, I finally did at the end. The ending was great, it fit Red's character and I was mightily pleased.

Throughout the entire book you are left wondering why Red wears the gloves on her hands. All you really know is that if she should ever take them off you should run--run as fast and as far away as you can! It was quite a shocking surprise the reason why. But it made me like Red :).

I had one other issue, but I don't think it's terribly bad, or cause to not enjoy the book. It's in respect to the Chosen and the Prophecy. It seemed a bit choppy in that you really have no clue how long ago this prophecy was foretold. All you ever get of a past time is 5 years ago. It makes you think that the prophecy started five years ago, but that can't be because Red is an adult, born with the mark of the chosen. It was always in the back of my mind while reading, but I don't think it truly hindered the experience of reading the book.

Having said that, I loved the story plot with the land of Palins in upheavel, the prophecy, the maked 'Chosen Ones', all of it made for a very engaging story, easy to follow. I have White Star, book two in this series, to read. And I'm looking forward to continuing where the story left off in Dagger-Star.

will this be a series?
I wonder if this will take off into a series or turn into a one book wonder? I loved these characters, very well written and in depth it leaves room for more but will there be?

I don't care what you categorize it as, I like it.
Red Gloves, like Elizabeth Vaughn's other works, is billed as a romance.And like her other works, this is a "kissing" (and then some) book.

But make no mistake - this is a rousing fantasy tale.While this story takes place in the same world as the Warlands trilogy, it is far removed geographically and tonally.

In the Warlands books, Lara, while willful, was still socialized in a patriarchal society.It took extraordinary events for her to buck the system.Red Gloves - the heroine of this book - on the other hand, is a free spirit.She starts off unafraid of confrontation, and does not look back.She is a strong, independent, and beautiful woman - and knows it.Red is not "perfect";she errs, and has her own weaknesses.That said, Red starts more forceful than Lara ended up being, and goes from there.If you prefer your heros more like Xena or Buffy, then you'll enjoy Red's adventures.The romance bits are a lot more intense here as well;the action heats up quickly and does not let up.Yet Ms. Vaughn has mastered the ability to write steamy sex scenes without dropping into cheesy overwrought prose.

I have two minor issues with the book;when the point of view changes between characters, sometimes the timeline would back up a few moments.This was vaguely disconcerting a few times, but I was able to adapt to it.Secondly, some of the battle scenes and warfare happen offstage.Ms. Vaughn can write battles well;one in the bog had me on the literal edge of my seat.Yet they are glossed over in an almost cinematic style.I have to suspect that this is due to the book being published under a romance imprint;rather than concentrate on both the battles and the characters, the decision was made to focus more on the characters.This isn't a bad thing, but I would have liked to actually see Red Gloves in action a bit more.

All in all, this book is a good fit for fans of both fantasy and romance.Due to the sex (and Red Gloves' attitude towards such), it's not recommended for immature and prudish types. ... Read more

Product Description
The members of South Carolina's Sweet Briar Ladies Society sewing circle are as loyal and close-knit as the day is long. But when the richest and meanest woman in town turns up murdered, the new Yankee librarian Tori Sinclair finds that some threads can bind dangerously tight. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

great!!!
As the preview stories it is funny, entertaining and fresh.The author does not need to need to use gross language, sex or violence to write acan't-put-down book.Honestly I hope there will be more sequels.

The descriptions and stories of Sweet Briar make you really 'see' it and make you wish the town really exists.The characters are endearing and very funny, very well pictured.

I must say, though, that all this series books do remind me of the Grub and Stakers series.But that does not tarnish the delight one gets from reading it.

a great mystery
What a story!Rose believes that her former student could not be a murderer, so Tori and her friends are doing everything they can to prove his innocence, but everything is not as it appears. This is one those stories where you get wrapped up in the character's lives that you're pulling for them in every step they take. There were a couple of tender and warm-filled moments that made this book a worthwhile read.

Entertaining and ambitious!
Elizabeth Lynn Casey really went for the ambitious story in Pinned for Murder, the third book in her lovely Southern Sewing series and pulled it off completely.

I don't do synopses so if you're looking for that go read the one under Product Description or in another review. What I will tell you is how brave and strong this story was written.

It's a cozy, you say. Yes, it is a cozy in that there is no gratuitous sex or violence and the sleuth is an amateur. But ELC's delving into the tough topics of how, as a society, we handle crimes committed by those who are less mentally capable; how some of the older generation, especially in the South, still view race; how we treat those in our community with less and how we try to understand the choices that they and we make. I don't want to make this book out to be some kind of treatise on the haves and have nots. But in the midst of this entertaining murder mystery ELC manages to provide a deep insight into real people's actions and motives by the actions and motives of her characters. It moved me and I am grateful that I got to read it.

But the real question, you want to know, is ... is it a good mystery? Are there twists and turns and clues and red herrings? Yes, yes and yes.

Finally, what I really like about the Southern Sewing series is that the supporting cast seems to get a book of their own to shine. This one is Rose. If we get a book featuring a more prominent role for each of the Sweet Briar ladies in Tori's life then we will be well served by this talented author.

Now THAT's what I'm talkin' about!
Now THAT'S what I'm talkin' about!This is a good cozy and it's why I read a lot of cozies.If I want angst and horror and strife, I'll watch the news, thank you very much.This is a good book in that the characters are all believable and, like the protag, I have friends of all ages.There are a lot of good life lessons in this book but it's entertaining and uplifting and complicated enough to keep my attention.I enjoy the relationship between Tori and Milo and the relationships Tori has with all her friends as well as her special friendsip with little Lulu!This was a very good read for me and I'm sorry there aren't more Southern Sewing series books out yet but I'll eagerly await the next one. Thanks, Elizabeth!

if you miss this one, you'll regret it!
elizabeth has done it again!a cozy little mystery with a remarkable cast of characters.the members of the 'south carolina sweet briar ladies society sewing circle' will become almost family as you read this tale. you never find out whodunit until the last chapter, leaving you guessing all through the story. miss elizabeth has a way with a story that draws you in. i could tell you what the story is about, but it would spoil the story.you need to enjoy this one for yourself,and enjoy you will. so grab a cuppa whatever you like, light the fireplace, sit a spell, and join the sewing circle ladies for an evening of pleasure reading.it doesn't get any better than that. ... Read more

Product Description
Ever since she moved to Sweet Briar, South Carolina, Yankee librarian Tori Sinclair has been the talk of the tiny town. But she's been so busy at work, winning over the sewing circle, and trying to forget her cheating ex that she hasn't even had time to baste together a pillow, let alone mind local gossip. Then she finds the hometown sweetheart dead at her back door...

Everyone believes the police investigator, who's just fixin' to link Tori to the murder in a love triangle gone bad. To clear her name, Tori will have to rely on her new sewing sisters and stitch together the truth- or be darned. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

Cute story a easy relaxed no brainer read
I enjoyed the story. It is a relaxed read where you can read it before bed and just sit back and enjoy the simple story. I loved it
for what it was. Would purchase another book of her.

North and South
The combination of a new Yankee librarian (Victoria) in a small southern town was too tempting to pass up.

It lived up to my expectations with the bonus of a lovable little girl, Lulu and the various characters of the local sewing circle.Victoria may or may not make it into the sewing group as half of them suspect her of a recent murder.After all, who else could it have been - she's new in town and a Yankee to boot!

The mystery was very secondary to the developement of these characters and Victoria's adjustment to some strange (to her) southern customs.

A very enjoyable light new series.

Cute story, but...
...I think the author needs to do a little research into the way children act.She wrote the young girl in the story as if she were a slow-witted four-year-old, not a shy and slightly awkward child twice that age.So many of the cozy mysteries I read have that same problem...either the children in them are written as overly precocious (Hannah Swenson's niece, anyone?) or as incredibly immature for their ages.Nine and ten year old children aren't lifted onto tables to speak eye-to-eye with an adult, and they don't baby talk.

Still, it's a minor quibble.Good story, cute premise, and a mostly likable heroine, even if she does tremble and tear up a little too often for my liking.

Truly Awful
I am a big fan of the cozy genre.I understand that people do not come to the genre for great literature or even believability.I certainly don't read something like "Bleak House" with the same expectations as I read a book in the genre.However, this book failed completely to meet any of the admittedly low standards I expect from this genre. If you are looking for a cozy, you should turn your attentions elsewhere.This book falls squarely within the parameters of "chicklit".The mystery is less than an afterthought; the murder of a person (whom we never meet during her life) is a mere vessel for a romance.This book has every hallmark of "chick-lit" posing as a mystery.
1. Locks of hair falling across the forhead of the love interest
2. Blue eyes that...(insert trite metaphor here)
3. A totally unbelievable cop who suspects the main character becuase she is in fact the main character (and probably becuase he finds her attractive).
4. Copious tears
5. Shivers, tingles, etc... at every touch of main character and blue-eyed floppy-haired love interest
6. Repeated lumps forming in the throat of heroine at every available opportunity (though mostly when she meets blue-eyed floppy-haired love interest or overbearing myopic police officer.)
7.Recent break-up either for the heroine or the floppy-haired love interest. (In this regard the book is a jackpot in that both have recently broken up)
In addition to the chick-lit genre offenses, there are pages and pages of garbled child-speak. A mystery book, if the mystery is indeed central, does not really have a place for doting parents, or in this case murder-suspect strangers, to coo over raven-haired doe-eyed children.After reading through an entire book of romantic evening strolls and more cliches than can be counted, the mystery is literally solved on the phone.Cut to...the end of the book, wherein absolutely everything istied up perfectly and all the characters have an entire chapter to cry, tremble, embrace, and generally fawn over one another.My final criticism relates to the "southerness" of this mystery. My entire family for generations have lived in either Georgia or Alabama.The language of the south is the language of my family.Reading this book made me wonder if British people feel the way I felt when they hear an American affecting "the Queen's English."
If you are a mystery fan, I would highly recommend looking for something else.

Never a dull moment
This is an excellent new series to the cozy mystery genre.Tori, short for Victoria, has just been named as the new replacement head librarian in the small town of Sweet Briar, SC.Coming from Chicago, a small southern town takes some getting used to but Tori is determined to succeed.Of course, she had not planned on stumbling over a corpse on her way to taking out the library trash.And if that wasn't bad enough, before she knows it, she's even being accused of the murder.It seems that the town's residents to not handle change and/or new residents well.

This, of course, sets up the mystery that Tori decides she must solve herself since the local police are also treating her as if she is the guilty party. There are numerous surprises along the way of solving this well crafted mystery and the town's characters--or Southern Belles--as the women like to be referred are wonderfully realized.This makes the town's sewing circle, which Tori has been invited to join, a great place to "eavesdrop"and one feels as if they are getting to know the women in it quite well.Yes, this one kept me guessing (and I still didn't get it right!).I look forward to the next in Ms. Casey's series.I found the town and it's residents more or less getting "under my skin".Highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description
The Southern Sewing Circle mystery series continues.

Yankee librarian Tori Sinclair is basking in the warmth of her new circle of friends from South Carolina's Sweet Briar Ladies Society sewing circle. That is until local author Colby Calhoun reveals an unflattering secret about the town's historic past-and then disappears, leaving a bloody trail behind him. And when Tori begins to see a pattern of the townsfolk's age-old Southern pride standing in the way of justice, she knows it's time to unravel the mystery. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

I loved it.
As the previous story it is funny, entertaining and fresh.The author does not need to need to use gross language, sex or violence to write acan't-put-down book.Honestly I hope there will be more sequels.

The descriptions and stories of Sweet Briar make you really 'see' it and make you wish the town really exists.The characters are endearing and very funny, very well pictured.

I must say, though, that all this series books do remind me of the Grub and Stakers series.But that does not tarnish the delight one gets from reading it.

Fun book, but author needs better editor
I won't go over the storyline as others have already done that. I read the first book, thoroughly enjoyed it and eagerly got this one. I found reading it a little frustrating, not because of the story, but because of the wording.

First, there is a spoiler in this book! The author reveals the ending of the first book in two places. If the reader isn't reading them in order, the first book will be spoiled by this one. Major blunder, in my opinion.

Inconsistencies from first to second book. There are a few instances of continuity mishaps in the carried-over facts regarding characters and descriptions. For instance, in the first book Milo's wife is said to have died of a brain aneurysm. In the second she is said to have died from cancer. Elaborate descriptions of furniture change as well.

Finally, the dialog is very hard to follow. The author uses pronouns instead of names when attributing quotes. Since most of the characters are women, and many of the conversations take place among several of them while meeting in their sewing circle, it's impossible to keep track of who's speaking when the quote is closed with "she said" instead of "Rose said" or "Leona said".

Some of this may be chalked up to Kindle formatting, but I think with the popularity of Kindle that should be taken into account by the editors and publishers.

Death Threads
Just finished Death Threads and loved it. Being from a small southern town I love the characters and the way they become your friends. I did not know who did it until the very end and for me that is a good book. I have already preordered her next book(Pinned for Murder) and cannot wait for October 5th. I give this book 5 stars as I did her 1st book. If you love a really good mystery please read both of her books.












































i could not figure who did it until the very end

Even Better Than The First in the Series!
This book, in my opinion, was worlds better than the first in the series "Sew Deadly" and that is saying a lot because I enjoyed meeting the characters there first.

Now, this was a cozy mystery and I did not see the culprit until the Author chose me to. Meanwhile on the journey, there was witty dialog, and complex inter-relationships. This not only could happen in any town/city but,does.

If you want a solid good book... Buy it!

Great New Series!
This is the second book in a new series by Elizabeth Lynn Casey. The stories are set in a small fictional town in South Carolina called Sweet Briar.

These mysteries are full of typical Southern characters full of charm. If you're from a Southern family like me this series will be like slipping into a family reunion.

Victoria Sinclair's latest adventure in her new home is a surprising one. I won't give you a plot synopsis as you can read that above but I will say that Casey manages to get a great deal accomplished plot-wise without it feeling too rushed. Maybe it's because everything feels slower in the South but the mystery hums along at a good clip before you suddenly realize it's done and you've got to say goodbye.

She's got all the little quirks of Southern life down which some readers may not be fully comfortable with but the South is full of weird people so these are spot on for a writer who did not grow up here.

If you like mysteries full of surprises and interesting people, get yourself a glass of lemonade and sit a spell with Death Threads. You won't be sorry. ... Read more

Product Description
In 1989, Elizabeth Jenkins was living in San Francisco, working on a doctorate in clinical psychology. Her life seemed full...but she felt empty. Then she traveled to Peru, intending to research Andean healing practices--and found herself taking an unexpected journey, with the guidance of an initiated priest of the Andean Path. This is her story, filled with compelling details of her own initiation in the beautiful but harsh setting of the high Andes--and how the voyage has changed her life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Hidden gold
To those who think Elizabeth's book is just a self-absorbed ego trip, you have missed quite a bit.I have read most every available article and book on Peru and the tradition of the Andean Priests and the Q'ero.Although Elizabeth does bring us a very direct first-hand account which could be interpreted as self-important, I am inclined to conclude that most observers reaching this conclusion has been self-misled.(This book is a memoir by the way, says so on the back cover.)

Of the many books out there on spiritual experiences in general, including writings about the Q'ero in Peru and the Huichol in Mexico, there is a great distinction between a first person story that dwells in the imagination (personal problems, alcholic background, etc.) and one that delivers important details.It is very easy to read a first person story and completely miss the important details.Perhaps it will take someone who has researched the foundations of Andean mysticism for a few years to realize when they are tripping over the nuggets.Elizabeths book has some real gold in it.Gold that has meaning to someone very interested in the subject.

a surpringly enjoyable trip
Like Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance and The Teachings of Don Juan, Elizabeth Jenkins' first book presents powerful and often unbelievable spiritual experiences under the rubric of nonfiction. Jenkins, a family therapist, acts on an inspiration to go to Cuzco, Peru to learn about the spiritual path of the Incas. She becomes the only white woman admitted to a group that holds seance-like ceremonies; with this group, she has bizarre and eye-opening experiences. She later connects with a better teacher who encourages her to bring several seekers from the U.S. to Peru and collectively work toward reaching higher levels of spiritual consciousness. Is the story meant to be taken as literal truth, or does Jenkins use fictional methods to evoke a sense of wonder analogous to that of mystical experience? If a book does evoke a sense of mystical wonder, does it matter if it's true? Jenkins has succeeded in the difficult task of believably telling an unbelievable story. Initiation can be read as real religion or fantastic fiction; either way, it's a surprisingly enjoyable trip.

Could be worse-- but not by much
Look at the Editorial Review up above here... go ahead.In the first sentence you will notice mentioned the, quote, Andean village of Cuzco, Peru.This is as good a place as any to start with why this book should be considered memoir or even fiction, but certainly not a serious guide to a Real spiritual tradition.

Why?Cusco, Peru is a city of 400,000 people, has internet access, credit cards, and also a multi-million dollar tourist industry.(It is the city where I live.)Peru is often considered the Number One tourist destination on Earth.As such, a booming Mystical Tourism industry has sprung up as well, capitalizing on the Western Worlds interest in the oh-so-Mystical Andes.Jenkins describes her experiences with Mystical Tourism, but calls it Mysticism.

So, if you are interested in the genuine article, skip this book.If, instead, you want to read a romanticized account of a foreigner learning the spiritual ways of the Andes, read the Celestine Prophecy.The author of THAT book does us the favor of telling us up front it is Fiction.

I say this with a great deal of love for the authentic and Vanishing spiritual traditions of the Andes and Peru in general.

I say this because I am NOT interested in seeing the flea markets and open-air-markets of Cusco replaced by consumer-capitalist Super Markets-- AND at the same time, I am NOT interested in seeing the Real spiritual traditions of the Andes replaced with user-friendly, mass produced, soul-devoid styrofoam imitations.I am not interested in Spirituality as Entertainment or Presumptuous Self-Involvement.

The author, sadly, perhaps without even realizing it, is promoting just that kind of shift in Peru.I hope readers will have the sense to see through the romanticized illusion.In the end, those who want to do something to promote spirituality in the Andes and in the world-- like the author presumably does-- should consider joining programs to increase the standard of living in this incredibly poor section of the world.While Jenkins and her foundation make money off of the Initiations they perform, Peruvians continue to be dirt poor.Where is the love for the Pachamama and the Apus in that?Where is the mysticism and mystery?Mystery?I would say that it looks rather obvious.

Me and my ego would be a better subtitle
I tried to find a title for this review that was less harsh, but there's nothing else for it.I have read the book at least twice, and attended some workshops with another teacher of South American curanderismo, who speaks well of Juan Nunez del Prado.Juan has apprenticed with a true curandero in Peru.

The emphasis on her 'specialness' and references to 'initiated fourth-level priest' on her website speak volumes of where Elizabeth herself is coming from.I contacted some of her 'fourth-level priests' in Europe asking if they knew another healer who lived in the same city they did.They answered back with a short 'no', and goodbye.How much REALLY did they want to help heal others, when they ignored an opportunity to learn about another potential teacher in their backyard?

I agree with another reviewer, this is yet another book by yet another person promoting superficial spiritual tourism.Look at her website and see how many times you find the word 'initiation'.

There is accurate info regarding South American curanderismo, particularly in the second section.My advice if you are seriously interested in helping people with their pain and suffering using Peruvian curanderismo, is to get this book and the one by colleague Joan Parisi Wilcox used (so you aren't putting money in their pockets), ignore the ego, and read for useful information.There is some there.

an american tourist in peru
This is a superficial and at times naive accountby a yet another starry eyed, eager and willing "shaman's apprentice". Elizabeth Jenkins worked as an English teacher in Cuzco when she met a "fourth level" shaman, Juan Nunez, who showed her around Peru. Juan immediately initiated her into the fourth level herself. The apparent ease and efficiency of this "initiation" process has, if i am allowed to be slightly cynical, allowed Elizabeth and Juan to create a major business catering to those who are looking to get something for nothing.About 20 times a year, Juan initiates yet another group of wide eyed tourists, and both E. and J. lead initiation workshops all over the world, including the US.

This book will be of interest to people who are inclined towards safe "spiritual adventures".I would not recommend it to people who are looking for more resources on shamanic "technology", initiation or peruvian beliefs. ... Read more

Product Description
Take this to bed.

The anthology that brings every conceivable fantasy to life.

He's a psychic.
She's got a dirty mind.
They were made for each other.

A beauty has met a stranger in the woods. She calls him the Beast. She has good reason. He's left his mark.

How far will a woman go when she comes upon the ultimate sex toy? How much ecstasy can her body withstand?

When a chambermaid misbehaves in the Eros Hotel, she must be punished. With pleasure.

What becomes of a woman in black leather, stilettos, and a collar? What she always wanted to be.

And nineteen more scorching stories to be read alone, together, or to each other-from the reigning queen of hot fiction. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Unpleasant Surprise
I have read some other books by this author that I enjoyed, so I was excited to get this one.However, I discovered that this is exactly the same book as one I already had by her by another name "Bedtime Stories for Lovers III".Why would you market the same book by another title??? I was very upset to have paid money for the same book.

Not Naughty Enough
This was overall pretty well done, but not quite as spicy as I like. It was still worth reading and more exciting than some of the snoozers they have out. They just don't make them like Ann Rice anymore, do they? her 'Beauty' Trilogy is the best I have ever found. More recent is Nancy Madore's Enchanted, which is probably one of the best erotics I have seen lately.

For The Lackluster Marriage
The stories, without fail, were tame and harmless as a paperplate. I would recommend this book to couples trying to rekindle some sort of bland passion, or to those who feel that holding hands is a type of foreplay.

Naughty Bedtime Stories indeed!
Naughty Bedtime Stories is one great erotic short-story collection.I had once read one erotic novel by Joan Elizabeth Lloyd called Midnight Butterfly and it was about time I read another one of her offerings.This collection contains some rather naughty stories for couples.Each story contains something that will please a specific reader.Lloyd has written stories with elements of bondage, different fetishes, fantasy and paranormal.My favorite stories are "In My Dreams," "Woodworking Wizard," "The Woman Who Tried to Seduce Death," "Succubus," "Incubus," and "Read Aloud."There is something for everyone here.Even though some of the stories were disappointingly short, Naughty Bedtime Stories is an overall satisfactory read (so to speak). ... Read more

Product Description
A young widow is betrayed by her father and taken as a bride by a rough trapper, but when she and the trapper are taken hostage by Indians, they learn to withstand the harsh challenges of the wilderness together. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

MOST REALISTIC LIFESTYLE OF THE 1700's
My major complaint is the unrealistic characters on the cover.

Yup! Celene Bernard, masquarading as a boy, was not going to let a man bully a woman, even an Indian woman, without trying to help.

Burke Cardwell has lived among the Chippewa Indians for the past 11 years with his traps and lovely Indian wife, Morning Song.Now he is a widower and suddenly decides he needs a disreputible woman to present as his wife when he returns to England.This will be the start of his revenge for being kidnapped and sent among the trappers.

Celene appears to be that woman, she is fiesty, uncultured and opinionated.Ah, but Celene has had enough of brutish men and their dominations.Never will she willingly surrender to a man's authority again.

Burke soon discovers a beauty in this silver haired, green eyed French woman that tugs at his protective instincts.

Of course, her abduction by the enemies of her father, Antoine Peugeot sets Burke on a trail of danger.Celene will have to petition her half-brother, Darkening Sky to help save Burke's life.And he still almost loses it because of Autumn Leaf's obsession with Cardwell.Oh, the troubles they live through! And she doesn't like the river.

Well the marriage finally happens and then Bayard Forrester shows up and throws everyone in a turmoil as he identifies the Eighth Earl of Hammondsford, Frederick Andrew Burke Hammond-Cardwell.WoW, is there trouble in the henhouse.

Read this great story of how Burke finally understands and gives up his idea of revenge against his grandfather, Alaric, the Fifth Earl of Hammondsford. [I think I have the name right].

What a tale - great plot - excellent characters and nasty relatives - mystical seduction - weird villians.

Definitely Recommend for those who like a well-rounded story.

... Read more

Product Description
From the queen of the naughty bedtime story, an anthology of all-new erotic stories written especially for couples.

With Bawdy Bedtime Stories, Joan Elizabeth Lloyd offered sexy tales to keep fans awake-and aroused- long after dark. Now she presents all-new sizzling stories guaranteed to make readers hot...

A woman asks the Gods to fashion a magical object- a tempting tool that will provide her with infinite rapture. But some pleasures are not so easy to give up.

When a couple realizes that their lovemaking is being watched by a voyeur, they take the opportunity to put on the best show they can in an exhibition of pure ecstasy.

After a curious couple discover their neighbors' great sex life, they find out that watching can be fun-but doing is so much better... A man dies and discovers a heaven filled with willing, wanton women. But he soon discovers that sex without caring, without challenge, is not the paradise he'd imagined. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Quick and sexy, this anthology is a series of short fantasies.
Hot Stories for Cold Nights by Joan Elizabeth Lloyd
Contemporary Romance -Oct 5th, 2010
3 ½ stars

Hot Stories for Cold Nights is an anthology which was more and less than I expected. When I read the blurb I thought there would just be a few stories in this anthology. But to my surprise this books contains about 30 shorts!A few of them are different 'scenes' with the same couple. .This was good because it had a lot of variety but except for the longer stories.I felt a little dissatisfied. Many of the stories I wished the author had expanded the story past the sex scenes and let me learn a bit more about the couple so I felt more invested in them.

As mentioned earlier, most of the stories involve a couple (m/f).But there are some ménage scenes, too.What I did find refreshing is that there were also several stories from the man's perspective (The hero is the main character).At first it felt a little strange since I am used to the woman being the main character.But I realized I liked the `sneak peak' into a man's fantasies!

Here are some of the storylines which I enjoyed. The short stories called Friday NightGames are about a couple who spice up their relationship by role-playing fantasies. There is also a series of shorts about a husband who loves movies and likes to `play' them in his fantasies.They include a pirate scene, doctor scene, and an alien scene!I particularly liked the story about the author experiencing writer's block while trying to write an erotic scene when a mysterious man with the same name as her hero suddenly appears and takes her on a sensual journey.There are also some funny stories which include a leprechaun who offers great sex instead of the pot of gold and a man who finds a potion that makes him irresistible to woman.

Most of these stories are about couples who are already established finding new life in their relationship. There is a little bondage and spanking.The stories are sexy and fast reads. But for me I was disappointed that most were not as developed as other books I have read by this author.If I had known this books was complied mainly of vignettes beforehand I don't think I would have felt as disappointed.

Readers who love this author will find these stories enjoyable but may find their brevity a bit unsatisfying.But if they purchase this book realizing that most are just short scenes instead of actual stories with a plot then they will be prepared.

Quick and sexy, this anthology is a series of short fantasies.

Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club

entertaining erotic Hot Stories
The thirty entries are in fact twenty separate tales as the other ten are additional chapters rather than stand alone short stories.Thus, readers initially will be confused but quickly pick up that "Creating a Bestseller" is followed by "Creating a Bestseller: The Next Chapter" thanks mostly to Jared and Mandy.The longer multiple entries like the Madam's Brothel" (Options in five parts), "Movie Mania (three parts), and "Friday Night Games" (played in three periods) are the best contributions as the reader has the chance to meet the lead participants outside of just sex.Still even the short shorts (approximately eight pages on an average) are fun to read as accentuated by the opening act in which Pete and Missy capture a Leprechaun who provides lovemaking advice that the Penthouse Magazine guide would say makes for a wonderful cocktail. Ranging in sub-genres and encounters, for the most part, Joan Elizabeth Lloyd provides entertaining erotic Hot Stories for Cold Nights (temperate and hot nights too).

Harriet Klausner
... Read more

Product Description
Like the works of James Lee Burke and John Berendt, this spellbinding novel by Walter McCloskey shows us the physical and psychological violence that lies just beneath the veneer of southern hospitality.

Lawyer Harry Preston thought he knew New Orleans. As a boy he spent summers there, and now--after his wife's murder--he's come back to the city of his youth to grieve privately and raise his son. But when Harry falls for the fatally beautiful socialite Elizabeth Bennett, he descends into a world of scandal and corruption and decadence that had never been part of his New Orleans...until now. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

A Literary Masterpiece
One of the best books I've read in years. Bennet is poignantly realistic, and McCloskey builds suspense brilliantly. In its portrayal of local dynamics in a New Orleans neighborhood, the novel resonates as almost Faulknerian at times, hinting at the famous "A Rose for Emily" yet employing more precision in its diction. It unflinchingly confronts the reality of 1980's oil "new money" and the sleazy violence that pulses benath the facade of New Orleans decadence. If you are going to read one book this year, make it Risking Elizabeth.

awesome
Mr. McCloskey is my english teacher and he is awesome! Buy this book, it rocks my socks off!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I haven't read it, but........
Mr. McCloskey is my current English teacher. He is an excellent teacher and I'm sure that his writing is excellent because he teaches us to write well. It sounds like his book is good and yes, there is going to be a sequel.

Worth the Risk!
How I loved the characters and how their stories unfold and intertwine! So well written, I could visualize the neighborhoods and settings and feel the moods of the characters as well as envision their surroundings. It's as the jacket describes: we sense the physical and psychological violence thatlies just beneath the veneer of southern hospitality. Surely there's asequel in the making.Even if not a sequel to RISKING ELIZABETH, I lookforward to Mr. McCloskey's next novel.

Worth the Risk!
How I loved the characters and how their stories unfold and intertwine! So well written, I could visualize the neighborhoods and settings and feel the moods of the characters as well as envision their surroundings. It's as the jacket describes: we sense the physical and psychological violence thatlies just beneath the veneer of southern hospitality. Surely there's asequel in the making.Even if not a sequel to RISKING ELIZABETH, I lookforward to Dr. McCloskey's next novel. ... Read more

Product Description
In eighteenth-century London, a killer walks the teeming streets. His victims are always young prostitutes with red hair. Before they die, they hear whispers that speak of stars. Of a woman named Selene. Then they feel the cord around their necks...

While the Revolution rages across the Channel, Jonathan Absey, working for England's Home Office, tracks down foreign spies in the war against France. But he is obsessed with the recent killings of prostitutes, all of whom resemble his lost daughter, who met her end in the shadowy alleys of London.

The redemption he craves won't be found in the politics of war. The answers he seeks won't be on the city streets. Danger and intrigue will compel him to look elsewhere, for it is where he least expects it that a secret is hiding... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (38)

Best historical thriller I've read this decade!
If you are an amateur astronomer or have any interest in observational astronomy, the history of telescopes, or the history of astronomy, this is a must read! Even without the astronomy, it is still a thoughtfully plotted, well-paced, exciting piece of historical fiction. I can't tell you how many historical novels I have read about 18th-century France and England--but this is definitely the best. I found a used copy in a little bookstore in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, and spent my beach time reading--couldn't put it down except to enjoy the dark skies when the stars came out over the Caribbean sea.

A wonderful debut novel
This is a rich, multi-layered novel that intrigues, fascinates and irritates in turns.This was Ms Redfern's debut novel and a combination of effective writing and intriguing characters with some mystery and science blended in makes for a fascinating combination.

Irritating? Well the ending didn't 'feel right'.But I realised that this was a direct consequence of my having become attached to the characters and substituting my own preferences over the author's.

Recommended to those readers who enjoy some science and mystery in historical fiction.

Jennifer Cameron-Smith

A Great Literary Thriller
It's not often I read a book that not only teaches me something about science and history, but provides a great read as well."The Music of the Spheres", by Elizabeth Redfern, is one such novel.The level of detail and description of late 18th century London's taverns, back alleys, and environs are very well done and the historical context (after the French revolution) was a fascinating look at a historical era that I knew very little about.

The mixture of murder, astronomy, history and plots within plots was a great effort, and reminded me, at times of a Le Carre novel.As in Le Carre, you find yourself in the middle of a world that deals in intrigue, shades of gray, and very few happy endings.

My one criticism of this book is that I would have liked to know more about the inner government intrigues and villains who were pulling the strings that put the back dealings and treacheries in motion.

I look forward to reading Miss Redfern's next novel, Auriel Rising.

Good Beginning. Terrible End.
I don't like fiction. I don't like mysteries. But I do like history and astronomy, so when I saw the book I figured, Why not? I started reading and was hooked. The story got progressively more exciting, building toward a climax...that sucked!! The ending was heartbreaking, which after the depressing-ness of the rest of the novel practically killed me. But I could have lived with that except that the whole last scene was so hackneyed, poorly conveyed, and out of keeping with the rest of the book.

Some of the things I liked were that none of the characters was perfect, i.e., things were not black and white but with a lot of shades of gray. Also, the chapters are short, which is nice because you can grab a portion of the story and not have to remember later what was going on. And I liked the sex scenes--they may not have furthered the plot, but sometimes you need a little breather and what better way?

But I can't give it four or five stars because the ending was just too apocalyptic and contrived. What I would like to see is a sequel in which at least *somebody* ends up happy.

GROSSLY underrtated
One of Ms. Redfern's astounding gifts as a writer is her ability to make you smell. So if one doesn't like the fact that London used to smell badly, as did some of its' residents, go for a perfumed romance instead.
The book is well crafted with characters of substance. The subplots do not go on interminably. The end comes about at a rapid pace; and it may not be to the emotional satifaction of all concerned.
It's gritty, smelly and immensely entertaining. ... Read more

Product Description
Finally, here is the complete guide to Robert B. Parker's novels from Spenser to Jesse Stone to Sunny Randall, plot summaries, cast of characters, Boston locations and maps, and more.

Even before he was named Grand Master for Lifetime Achievement by the Mystery Writers of America, Edgar® Award-winning Robert B. Parker had assumed the mantle of dean of American crime fiction. "Taking his place beside Dashiell Hammett, Raymond Chandler, and Ross MacDonald" (Boston Globe), he transcended the crime genre. As one of the most prolific writers in the world, he reinvented crime writing.

Now his millions of fans can discover everything about Robert B. Parker and his books:

- Comprehensive biography of Robert B. Parker
- Inside the Spenser novels
- All about the Jesse Stone and Sunny Randall novels
- Parker's stand-alone fiction
- Complete cast of characters
- Spenser on film
- Robert B. Parker's Boston: locales, crime scenes, and maps
- Memorable quotes
- Inclusive bibliography
- Plus, an exclusive and insightful new interview with Robert B. Parker ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Essential book to read Robert Parker books in order
For the novice reader or latecomer to author Robert Parker, this companion book is a good place to start reading his novels in order rather than the book by book search(copyright year), used bookstore hunts and the impersonal chain bookstore(which is missing the key book!).

Robert B. Parker Companion
The somewhat sloppy copy editing gives me pause, as well. Here's an example, on pg 69 we find: "Cooper, Bob. (Bad Business) The CEO of Kinergy..." Then, on pg 70 an entry reads: "Cooper, Wilma. (Bad Business) Wife of Ben Cooper..."

Trivial error? Sure... Ben, Bob, what difference does it make? But what other trivial errors are in the book that I didn't catch? Then too, it occurs to me that for the U$14 cover price, I shouldn't have to do Berkeley Publishing's job for them.

And don't you dare call me "Bob!"

Buy a used copy, if you must.
Long on lists and short on meaningful commentary. I wasn't planning on learning the names of all of the people in Parker's various books, yet there are 116 pages devoted to exactly that. The character sketches trivialize the maturation of the main characters through the long writing history of Robert Parker, and much more could have been done, for example, with the growth of Hawk as a significant element of Spenser's life - book by book.

If you must buy this book, I recommend getting a used copy, they are going for as little as $1.13 plus shipping as of this writing.

robert parker companion
A typical companion book, just synopsis of his books, a little bio on Parker.An ok book if you want to use if for a reference.

disappointed
Disappointed.Just facts in a dry format.I was expecting more of an in depth relationship analysis between the characters, events, etc. ... Read more

Product Description
From the New York Times bestselling author of Talk Before Sleep and What We Keep comes "the love story of the year" (Detroit Free Press). A woman waiting for her husband to awake from a coma discovers the meaning of love, friendship, and faith.

"The terrifically talented Berg at her best."-- People ... Read more

Customer Reviews (57)

Inaccurate, trite, and hard to finish
I read this book after hearing it was set in my home town, St. Paul, Minnesota. It was filled with so many errors, I doubted the author had ever been here. There were also silly mistakes with the children's ages. She wrote them as 4 and 10, I believe, but later described behavior so odd for those ages it made me flip back to double check the ages. (For example, most four-year-olds have outgrown their naps let alone don't take morning naps! Babies take morning naps.) The errors weren't integral to the plot but they kept jarring me and made me assume there were probably more in areas in which I was unfamiliar, such as comas.

Some of this I may have been able to overlook if the story or characters were compelling. Instead, the characters were cardboard cutouts and the story one dimensional and dull. Throwing in the ghost character seemed like a desperate attempt to add something, anything to a story she knew was a clunker. In the end, I had to work to finish it so I could see if she somehow redeemed the story. The answer was a big No.

This book would never have been published for a first time author. It was clearly something the publisher accepted only based on the author's past sales. I for one, would be reluctant to try anything else she wrote having started with this.

Heartbreakingly real
This book elicited every possible reaction from me - I laughed, cried, got angry... In true Berg form, she creates such believable characters that jump out at you.What I always love about Berg's works is the detail paid to little snippets of conversation that may not necessarily be pivotal moments in the story, but lend such a three dimensionality to the characters and story.I disagree with other reviewers that this was not one of her best, as I have read all of Berg's books and find this to be my favorite.

simply perfect
what a great writer.I hate when her books end.Strong characters that you really like.The storyevokes such emotions that you feel you are in the room with them, or at least want to be.
moving, serious, good humor.what more could you want, other than another book by her!

TOUCHING
As usual, Elizabeth Berg's tender writing style carried me away with her characters.The touching caring feelings that come from reading this book was worth many times the cost of the book.It's a perfect book to escape to on a lazy summer day.

Perfect title for the book & author!
I have read just about everything Elizabeth Berg has written & am always looking forward to her next book. This is a beautifully written book that brings you into the lives of such real, believeable people....people you want to reach out & hug, to drive to the hospital, watch their kids, bring them over a casserole. Elizabeth draws you slowly into their lives, making you care about them, cry with them & laugh out loud with them.The book's title is as much about the book characters themselves as it is about the author's growth as a writer.She only gets better with each book! ... Read more

Product Description
War Stories chronicles 53 personal testimonies of virtually every major event from World War II by residents of New Orleans-from a Polish army officer who was defending his homeland the day of the German invasion to a member of the honor guard aboard the U.S.S. Missouri the day the Japanese signed the surrender papers. This one-of-a-kind memorial represents journalist Elizabeth Mullener's 12-year dedication to preserving eyewitness accounts of the most devastating conflict in human history. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

More soldier stories than survivor stories
I probably should have researched this book a bit more before purchasing because I was expecting more Holocaust survivor stories than the soldier accounts.Overall, it was still an entertaining read.

Great for WWII history readers.
Excellent, absorbing book for anyone who wants real-life experiences of those who lived through WWII.Slightly disappointed that a brief update on the participants was not given in all cases (family information and careers after the war). I wanted to read so much more and wish the writer could choose people from other cities in the United States (large and small). Highly recommend it.

One of the best WWII books I've ever read
War Stories: Remembering World War II

This is an excellent book.One of the best WWII books I've ever read, and I've read a lot of them!Each chapter is the story of an individual (real) person from New Orleans... each chapter provides a brief recollection of the impact of the war on that individual.The stories range from the memories of an artillery soldier recalling storming the beaches on D-Day to a Jewish child ousted from their farmhouse in rural Poland forced into hiding.War impacts us all, even those not on the front lines... this books tells those stories.A book about bravery, camaraderie, patriotism, and human nature.HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Excellent
This collection of eyewitness accounts of the years between 1939 and 1945 manages to personalize the years between 1939 and 1945 war as no history book could. Using experiences of people from all walks of life (most of whom were teenagers or in their twenties during the war), the author has managed to skillfully craft a very readable and poignant collection. Recurring themes of courage, resilience, love and family carry the reader through the war from start to finish. ... Read more