Customer Reviews:
Left me shivering and happy not to live in Alaska.......2007-03-25
On the one hand, a great whodunit placed in a fascinating setting (the far Alaska north) by a writer who really knows her stuff. (The writer, Dana Stabenow, lives in Alaska and it shows). On the other hand, the novel had such a gloom and doom atmosphere, it left me very much depressed after I had finished it. Oh well, maybe that is a sign of good writing; intentional or not, it's a darn good read anyway.
Kate Shugak, the heroine of this novel, is a traumatized ex-investigator of the Anchorage D.A.'s office, who gets - against her will, with a lot of arm-twisting - called upon to investigate the disappearance of two men because she knows the area (and its eccentric people) like the back of her hand. She also knows she's not going to like the answers to this mystery - and boy, is she right (but I'll leave that to the reader to find out).
In between, we meet up with a lot of fascinating, larger-than-life characters that seem to have stepped straight out of Northern Exposure. It does have enough humor in it to put a smile upon your face now and then (just visit the Roadhouse to see what I mean). Alaska is cold, rugged and dangerous, deadly to the unwary, so a sense of humor seems one of the required survival-traits to live there.
A Winner!.......2007-01-05
Top-notch author and another winning story. Alaska is featured and described with accuracy and affection. Just one of the many stories in this land of mystery and challenges.
Tough-tender Aeut woman, Alaska The Great Land, Justice.......2006-06-13
Kate Shugan, Alaskan Native Bush-dweller ex-DA investigator, with a college degree, and a scar from ear-to-ear, comes out of retirement or is pulled into problems. Her companion half-Husky/half-Wolf, her lover Jack, activist grandmother, family and friends, all part of The Great Land that is a character in itself. Wonderful characterizations, Native lore, life of subsistance living. Read in chronological order as characters are introduced and developed.
An Award-Winning Mystery Set In Alaska's Frozen North Country........2005-09-20
Aleut detective Kate Shugak, formerly a gifted investigator for the Anchorage D.A.'s office, moved back to Alaska's far north country after a horrible child abuse case left her scarred physically and emotionally. She now resides on a 160-acre homestead with her half-wolf, half-husky, half-breed canine, Mutt, and makes her living as a private investigator. "A Cold Day for Murder," Dana Stabenow's debut mystery in this wonderful series featuring PI Shugak won an Edgar award in 1993.
A national park ranger has gone missing in the Alaskan boondocks in the middle of winter, which signifies almost certain death from exposure. It has been more than six weeks since anyone heard from him. The young man's father, a US Congressman, demands that every effort be made to find his son. When the FBI agent assigned to search for the ranger goes missing, Kate Shugak, a native of the area where the two men were last seen, and an expert in Arctic wilderness survival skills, is asked to take the case, she accepts although their trail is now colder than the weather.
Dana Stabenow's Kate Shugak novels are consistently good to excellent, and this first one is a real favorite of mine. The author delves into Kate's background, presents some of her family members, spins a thrilling mystery, and touches on the political issues of environmental protection and loss of native cultures that Ms. Shugak holds dear. She also explores the relationship between Jack Morgan, Kate's former boss and lover, and our sleuth heroine.
One of the reasons I enjoyed this book so much, and many others in the series, is their Arctic setting and the details of native life and culture. The author's descriptions of the region's physical geography are wonderful. Her characters are original, complex and the dialogue is excellent - full of dark humor. Kate Shugak is super savvy, tough, prickly, and vulnerable, although she hides it well. She has a deep loyalty and abiding love for her people and the land.
A terrific read and a winning mystery series!
JANA
Disappointing.......2004-09-06
Here is yet another book in which the detective confronts the murderer with evidence that wouldn't last two minutes under cross examination--but the accused confesses, lays out all the motives, then does the detective a favor by committing suicide. I say a favor because the D.A. would never take the case, and if the case by some fluke went to court, the detective would be red faced under the attack of the defense attorney.
Enough of these. Publishers need to make it a rule: no on the spot confessions followed by suicide will be permitted. It's been done over and over--and like the exclamation point, it is the sure sign of the amateur.
I started the book with high hopes--an Aleut woman as detective, set in Alaska. It sounded great. The characters were interesting and the atmosphere was fine, although perhaps just a bit over done. But then the book collapsed for me, owing to the plot that really made no sense from a logical standpoint. I can only hope the writer's subsequent mysteries are better.
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A Cold Day for Murder: A Kate Shugak Mystery (Kate Shugak Mysteries)
Dana Stabenow
Manufacturer: Thomas T. Beeler Publisher
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Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 1574903551 |
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- AUTHOR RESPONDS
- ehh....
- Fascinating thriller
- Definitely not a page turner
- ONE OF THE BEST TRUE CRIME BOOKS I HAVE EVER READ!
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In the Cold Light of Day
Ann Williams
Manufacturer: LeFleur's Bluff Publications, Inc.
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Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0966126807 |
Book Description
Gripping, nonfiction crime novel about an infamous 1960 Southern murder and its aftermath, involving the coat hanger strangulation of beautiful socialite and mother of four, Gene Tate. Author Ann Williams, who was ten years old when the murder occurred in her Columbus, Mississippi neighborhood, deftly describes the chilling events leading up to the murder, and then offers front row observations of the colorful courtroom drama that electrified the small town, drew unprecedented crowds to the old, historic courthouse, and made headline news from coast to coast. Suspenseful, poignant, and at times humorous, In the Cold Light of Day offers a fast-paced, compelling account of the horrific tragedy that rocked the South.
Customer Reviews:
AUTHOR RESPONDS.......2005-01-03
It's interesting to me that two pro-killer reviews have popped up on the page . . . Leslie MSU is confused. He was indeed convicted of first degree murder. Not once, but twice convicted. Two trials.
If I were to update the book, many would be surprised at what I have learned since it was published. Former jurors, and friends close to the murder victim disclosed facts unknown previously. Was he guilty? Was he stalking her? Yes.
Ann Williams
ehh...........2004-09-22
I read this book as a sophomore in high school for a school project, and even then found it to be elementary in writing and in editing. I've lived most of my life about 30 minutes away from where this took place (although I was born way after the murder itself took place) and the only reason I found the book to be of any interest was because it talked about places and people that I could relate to...it wasn't in some town in New Mexico or Vermont that I had no idea about.
It's an interesting book if you are a crime buff who wants to hear about the mystery, but the person she basically plays juror and exocutioner for was never convicted - although thats not saying that he didn't do it. As a lawyer you would think she would not be quite so biased against him.
Read it if you'd like, but as I said, even as a fifteen year old I found it to be written on an elementary level.
Fascinating thriller.......2002-02-25
I loved "In the Cold Light of Day"! Although the author told us who the likely killer was in the first few pages, the suspense of the story kept me glued throughout the book. You worried about the accused getting away with it and the brave witness getting done in along with any number of possible twists and turns due to the uncertainty of the justice system at that time and in that location. It is chilling that this is a true story. This book haunted me for days....a mark of a really good story.
Definitely not a page turner.......2001-04-18
Most of the initial good reviews of this book were probably done by people who knew the author either in California or in Mississippi because the writing is substandard, especially for this genre. It is one of the worst books I've read. The incorrect French of the publisher leads me to think it was self-published.
ONE OF THE BEST TRUE CRIME BOOKS I HAVE EVER READ!.......2000-03-26
This is such a well written, first rate tale of a crime committed in sleepy Mississippi in 1960 that, for me, it evoked Scout in To Kill A Mockingbird. Thus having the tone set early on, it held my attention throughout--including reading all of the trial proceedings, which I usually do not do because they are so tiring and tedious. As an aside, this is one of the most entrancing jacket covers I have ever seen! The picture is of the victim, a young housewife, mother of four, trying her best in the 50's to be a good mother and wife, completely innocent of any wrong doing; hence the crime committed against her is as horrible as any crime can be! It is too bad this is published by a small publisher and not more widely available! I am hoping Ann Williams has written more non-fiction books.
Customer Reviews:
Too much talk.......2007-06-09
Worse than his last book. Too many questions being asked all the time. Rambles on and on.
Not Up to Expectations.......2007-06-06
Hawke's Fritz Malone was a great character in the debut novel by Hawke, Speak of the Devil. He was funny and likeable. He a had a great girlfriend and great relationship with her that added to the book. He also had a relationship with the girlfriend's father (his former partner) who added spice, wit, wisdom and and color to the book. Unfortunately, these aspects were missing in Cold Day in Hell resulting in a middle of the road mystery. Fritz' humor was in check. He and the girlfriend were shallowly on the outs because of Fritz' case and the father never appeared.
Fritz is a unique PI. He has an excellent rapport with the NYPD - how many fictional PI's can say they have good relations with their local police force? He shows humor without being cynicism - although less humor in this novel than in the first. He is generally a good guy for whom it is easy to root.
Cold Day in Hell opens with a murder that looks like it was committed by the same perpetrator that committed two prior murders. That suspect is a late night TV star currently being tried for the first two murders. Is it a copycat? Is the star innocent? The victim was a lover of the star and had testified in the nationally telecast trial. Soon a second murder occurs that also points to the TV star and Fritz is on the case.
The mystery is fairly good. There are plenty of suspects and motives to keep the reader hopping. However, I found the presentation a bit disorganized. I also found that Fritz' involvement was a bit far-fetched. He had no client nor interest, except that he had met the first victim - who lived across the street from his girlfiriend - to look into hate mail she had received after testifying against the TV star.
As good a character as Fritz is, the other characters in this book, especially the show biz ones seemed boilerplate. There is an excellent police woman who does have depth and is interesting. She and Fritz carry the book.
All in all, this was a decent murder mystery. I don't know that if this were the first book I read by Hawke that I would read any others by him. However, his Speak of te Devil was so excellent, I look at this as a temporary misstep - that was still okay - and I look forward to his next one.
Prepare to lose your preconceived ideas of what a detective novel can be. .......2007-05-30
Having written only two books, Richard Hawke already has earned himself a place on the "must read" list of detective fiction fans. SPEAK OF THE DEVIL introduced Fritz Malone, a very different (and memorable) private investigator whose territory is New York City. It must be noted that Hawke doesn't write straightforward crime novels; to say that he deconstructs the genre would be inaccurate, but he certainly stretches and tests its boundaries. The result is an implicitly edgy narrative that creates an atmosphere in which anything might happen.
COLD DAY IN HELL centers on Marshall Fox, a wildly popular late-night television personality whose professional and personal life is fodder for daily morning water cooler discussion. The fact that Fox is a bit of a rake only fuels his reputation. But when two women who are linked to him are found brutally slain in a unique, sinister fashion, he is charged with their murder. The trial is, as one might expect, a circus --- it is even referred to as "O.J. East" --- and the testimony of Robin Burrell, one of Fox's many ex-lovers, regarding his points of arousal only serves to further inflame the rabble. Burrell, who happens to live across the street from Malone's significant other, retains Malone to deal with the avalanche of harassing mail and phone calls she receives.
When Burrell herself is murdered in a fashion similar to those for whom Fox is on trial, it raises the issue of whether Burrell has been executed by a copycat killer or if the D.A.'s office is trying the wrong man for murder. Malone is working with Megan Lamb, an emotionally troubled New York police detective assigned to the investigation. They begin digging into Fox's life and discover no lack of suspects or motives for any of the killings. When yet another brutal murder occurs --- similar but not identical to the first three --- Malone comes to the realization that knowing Fox is dangerous, and investigating the murders of his associates might be even more so.
Hawke is not afraid to take chances with his plot or characters. I about dropped the book at the end of Part 1 and then again near the violent climax of this exciting work. Hawke's ability to tinker with the form of his narrative while keeping the story true to the genre results in a unique, and ultimately addictive, reading experience. Pick up COLD DAY IN HELL and prepare to lose your preconceived ideas of what a detective novel can be.
--- Reviewed by Joe Hartlaub
Fritz Malone is back!.......2007-05-08
I thoroughly enjoyed the first installation of the adventures of NYC gumshoe, Fritz Malone and am sooooo happy to see that Richard Hawke is continuing the series. Yeah!
Sophomore Jinx.......2007-04-21
The second in a series is often disappointing failing to live up to the promise a first book, such is the case with Richard Hawke's COLD DAY IN HELL. Mr. Hawke, who also writes the wonderful Hearse mysteries under the name Tim Cockey, established a strong character in Fritz Malone in SPEAK OF THE DEVIL but does nothing with him this time around. This isn't a bad book but it drags almost from the beginning only to pick up in a series of two page chapters towards the end but never really kicks into gear and the final action sequences are disjointed, contradictory and, in the end, unsatifing. Mr. Hawke/Cockey has done much better in the past and, based on his terrific track record, should do better in the future. As for this one, wait for the paperback.
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Multiple books shipped as one item for your convenience. Save on Shipping/Handling charges.
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- Not Free SF Reader
- Had me hooked!
- enjoyable read
- [Review and Reflections] The Scorpio Illusion "Morta toda Autoridad" Do you know who is working against you? Who can you trust?
- Laughably bad
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The Scorpio Illusion
Robert Ludlum
Manufacturer: Bantam
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The Scarlatti Inheritance
ASIN: 0553566032
Release Date: 1994-06-01 |
Book Description
Amaya Bajaratt is beautiful, elusive, deadly -- and she has set in motion a chilling conspiracy that a desperate government cannot stop. An accomplished assassin and mistress of disguise and deception, she has set in motion the boldest act of terrorism yet conceived.
Tyrell Hawthorne was a naval intelligence officer--one of the best--until the rainswept night in Amsterdam when his wife was murdered, an innocent victim of the games spies play. Since then he's been sailing charters in the islands. Now he's called out of retirement for one last assignment. For Hawthorne is the only man alive who can track down the world's most dangerous terrorist.
Now, with his life and the life of the President hanging in the balance, Hawthorne must follow Amanya's serpentine trail, a path of seduction, betrayal, an instant death.
Racing from a millionaire recluse's fortress to the social whirl of Palm Beach and from the Oval Office to treacherous Caribbean waters, Hawthorne will uncover a sinister network of well-placed men and women who exist to help this consummate killer--and the shattering truth behind the Scorpio Illusion.
Customer Reviews:
Not Free SF Reader.......2007-09-03
The Scorpio illusion does have a professional spook as its protagonist. Or an ex spook anyway. Again, we have someone who gives the game away when his bedwarmer and better half gets killed because of an operation gone wrong.
He gets pulled back in because they need him to stop and find a female assassin who can lead him to information to uncover and stop a sinister plot.
Had me hooked!.......2007-07-19
I'm not a big spy novel kinda guy, but I must say that I truly enjoyed this book. Plenty of action and thoughtful character developement made this a page turner for me. Didn't matter that it was kind of long by todays standards; it kept me wanting more.
James A. Forrest - Eye of the Storm
enjoyable read.......2007-06-28
I enjoy a fast paced, don't have to think much book every once in awhile. Character development is good and the connection between the terrorist and Hawthrone makes for an interesting tangled web. I just realized that I use character development as a major indicator of many books. I guess I enjoy knowing the characters as much as I enjoy the story itself. There was often times in this book where there are so many good guys turning to bad guys that I had trouble keeping track. It was an interesting book and I would welcome more from Ludlum.
[Review and Reflections] The Scorpio Illusion "Morta toda Autoridad" Do you know who is working against you? Who can you trust?.......2005-09-13
Robert Ludlum's The Scorpio Illusion - A fast paced story of a woman obssessed with "Death to all authority", a very reluctant navy commander willing to help for a price, a secret organization helping with ulterior motives of its own. Amaya Bajaratt, the most notorious of terrorists out of the Baaka Valley, swore "Death to all Authority" as revenge for her lost childhood and her husband's death and she is known for accomplishing the impossible. Now intelligence agencies across four countries need to co-ordinate their efforts to find and stop her while time flies and people die... and they don't even have a picture of the woman. Commander Tyrell Hawthorne, one of the best there was, left the world of undercover and with the efforts of British and French Intelligence he is recruited to help. With the top ranks infilterated by "The Scorpions", Amaya is helped through different situations and assisted towards her goal -- none other than killing the President of United States of America. As the clock ticks towards D-day and people co-ordinating start dying, its a battle between brains and brawn.. leading to a nail biting conclusion. Robert Ludlum keeps you coming back for more.
Laughably bad.......2005-06-30
This book deserves NO stars at all.
I've never thought Ludlum was a great writer (I've never bought one of his books new, at full price, either) but I have to agree with Ronin - this one is simply a joke. It's hard to believe this was actually written by Ludlum. Nothing is believable about the plot or the action. No, intelligence and military personnel are far from perfect and very human, but if they were as poorly trained, as witless and unprofessional as they and the allegedly brilliant and sophisticated terrorists in this book are - the world would have been blown to hell and back a couple of hundred times since WWII. The dialogue is absurd, and Ludlum "padded" the book by at least 100 pages with pointless "explanatory" parentheticals and asides that detract from the dialogue and narrative flow.
I've always treated Ludlum books as light, fluffy beach or airplane reading and they've always served that end well; this one is almost like reading the text on the side of a toothpaste tube. I can only assume Ludlum either needed money badly or found himself with a contract obligation to fulfill and turned out this piece of bilge in as short of time as possible with as little attention paid to it as possible.
If you want a well written, believable "spy novel," read John Le Carre. He's not a prolific, but quality over quantity wins out every time. If you want beach reading, buy Ludlum, but NOT this one!
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4 massmarket paperbacks. 4 Titles By Robert Ludlum - The Scorpio Illusion - Apocalypse Watch - Prometheus Deception - Sigma Protocol.
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L'illusion scorpio
Robert Ludlum
Manufacturer: Pocket
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ASIN: 2266061836 |
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The Scorpio Illusion
Robert Ludlum
Manufacturer: Harpercollins
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Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 000223971X |
Average customer rating:
- couldnt put this 1 down
- crewies review
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Scorpio Illusion Uk
Robert Ludlum
Manufacturer: Harpercollins Uk
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Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 0006476333 |
Customer Reviews:
couldnt put this 1 down.......2002-11-22
being a fan of tom clancy and federick forsyth, i had 2 try a ludlum thriller.after reading the osterman weekend, i was hooked so i tried the scorpio illusion. im still only half way through it but i cant put it down and it is intriguing as hell!!
its basically about a terrorist of amzing intellect, trying to asssassinate the US President to get revenge for her husbands murder...there is good action, romance, thrills and intrigue and i cant w8 for the climax...go out and grab it!!!!!!!!!!
crewies review.......2002-04-16
This is one of those can't put it down books. From the very first page the reader is taken on a journey from the Middle Eastern war through the Carribean and the USA.
Robert Ludlum keeps a fever pitched pace as Bajarat weaves her magic dealing out love and death with a cold, calculating terrorist mind, all the while staying just out of reach of commander Hawthorn.
If you like action, romance, intrigue and a little blood doesn't put you off then I recommend this book as it has a double dose of all the above.
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- Dor and Irene are growing up
- Centaur Isle
- Centaur Aisle is a great book.
- Centaur Aisle is moderately appealing book in Xanth series
- A high flying adventure!
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Centaur Aisle (Xanth Novels)
Piers Anthony
Manufacturer: Del Rey
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Dragon on a Pedestal (Xanth Novels)
ASIN: 0345352467
Release Date: 1987-09-12 |
Book Description
Dor agreed to act as King of Xanth so long as Trent was gone for a week. But the weeks passed and Trent did not return. Dor knew he had to rescue his king but with no magic powers, how could it be done...?
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Dor agreed to act as King of Xanth so long as Trent was gone for a week.
The weeks passed and Trent did not return. Dor knew he had to rescue his king but, with no magic powers, how could it be done?
The magic of Xanth was useless in Mundania -- until Dor tried honesty!
Customer Reviews:
Dor and Irene are growing up.......2007-05-29
Dor is growing up and King Trent is providing him with occasional opportunities to practice his Kingship skills as we all know from previous books that Dor is the designated heir for King Trent. So, at the beginning of the book, King Trent informs Dor that he will be going on a secret trade mission to Mundania and Dor needs to take over the Kingship while Trent is away. To camouflage everything, Trent tells everyone that he and Iris are taking a long needed vacation. The whole absence is supposed to be for only a week.
Dor takes over and finds out that being a King is not as easy as it seems. As a matter of fact, there are implications and complications for every seemingly minor decision that is brought to Dor's attention. So, Dor does the best he can and seems to do a fair job of it especially since his magical talent is very helpful! The week passes by and Dor is ready the give up his throne ... but Trent does not return!!!
Another two weeks pass by and Dor is beside himself with worry. Not only that, but Trent's daughter Irene is also sick with worry and since she is Dor's constant companion, it is hard for him to ignore the issue. Another factor that complicates life is that Dor is now 16 and Irene is 15 and she is developing into quite a beautiful girl while Dor is also developing into a man and is starting to notice that Irene has developed in some very interesting shapes and intriguing ways!
Finally, Dor and Irene cannot stand it any more and they resolve to search out where Trent is and rescue him if necessary. But, another complication arises, it seems that a new Magician has been detected in the very south of Xanth and that needs to be investigated immediately. This is especially important since the furthest southern point of Xanth is inhabited by Centaurs - it is called Centaur Isle - who believe that magic is obscene. With the potential complications of all of this, Dor and Irene collect their friends (Chester the Centaur, Grundy the Golem, and Smash the Ogre) and go off to check out what is going on in the south.
As is usual with Xanth stories, there are many marvelous and dangerous creatures that are encountered and many situations where the play on words leads to some wonderful imagery (for instance, light bulbs are planted in the fields and the brightest bulbs are the most desirable). In this case, Centaur Isle leads to the magic-infused Centaur whose magical talent is the creation of an aisle of magic in front and behind him. In other words, a Centaur Aisle! Dor is also a very creative speller and many people use this attribute when giving him hints. For instance, Trent tells Dor to always rely on his Honesty when needing to make a decision on where to do. This does not make sense to anyone until Dor writes it down as ONESTI which then is revealed as a kingdom in Mundania!
Adventure after adventure result and the happy crew goes from discovering the magical Centaur to finding where Trent and Iris are being held captive. It takes quite a bit of ingenuity and inventiveness on the part of Dor, Irene and Grundy to find Trent and Iris and release them and then set the world aright.
This is a standard Xanth book in its creativity, its word play, and its humor. The storyline itself is dead-serious of course, and the resolution leads to many other possible followups. It is a very enjoyable and quick read - a perfect story for the beach or if you are a commuter!
Centaur Isle.......2005-10-28
Genre: Fantasy
Three sentence summary: A man, a young woman, a golem, an orge, and a centaur go out into the "wilderness" to find their lost king. The man's name is Dor, he goes looking for the king because the land of Xanth, a magical place, needs him. He is a substitute for hte king which is to overwhelming fro him.
What I most liked about the book: It kept you reading. The book's problems, when shown to you, are very unexspected.
What I didn't like and why: I didn't like it when the party went into the "real" world. I would much rather a total fantasy book.
My favorite character and why: Irene is my favorite character because she's beautiful and stubburn. She dosen't let anyone boss her around.
The scene, line, or passage that meant something to me and why(page #): "...He resented their dastardly deed that had ripped him from his contented existence and made him an exile." Pg.175 This quote describes a centaur that has just found out terrible news but he makes the most of it, that's why I like this quote.
What I would say about this book to someone else: It's daring and a romance story. It's exciting and about truth.
One question I have after reading this book: Did Dor and Irene get married?
My strongest reason for recommending this book: It is a good book, it dosen't give away the answer until the end. And, it is a fantasy.
Centaur Aisle is a great book........2005-05-05
I highly recommend this book! I have read most of the Xanth Series by Mr. Anthony and would recommend it as a necesary step in the evolution of Xanth and the understanding of the land and its people. These are the key characters who set the stage for all of the future books. The twists in the plot and the fun of what Magic (albeit funny Magic) might be like in Mundania are hilariously, exotically absorbing and if you look at this fraom a point of view of how the stories relate back to this book you will realize how great it truly is! I know it is a little more serious and less light hearted than the first three Xanth Novels but it is exciting and fun nonetheless. I actually consider this one my pesonal favorite of the twenty some-odd titles in the series that I have read. I consider Xanth Novels as "Must Read TV" because they are so delightfully entertaining, one is able to be drawn in and can almost watch the series of events unfold. Punny or not these books are great fun and I hope everyone else has as great a time as I have had reading them. Enjoy the escape of your imagination!!
Centaur Aisle is moderately appealing book in Xanth series.......2004-12-08
In this fourth book in the Xanth series by Piers Anthony, you will follow the adventures of the temporary king Dor, Princess Irene, orge Smash, the golem Grundy, and a centaur named Arnolde the Archivist. The present king, Trent, and Queen Iris have left on a secret mission and left Dor in charge of Xanth until their return. The only problem is that they DON'T return! Can Dor figure out the clues that Trent gave him to determine their location in Mundania? How will they save the royal pair -- Mundania is a place where magic does not exist! Enter a new magician in the realm of Xanth, and the impossible becomes a magical reality.
One of my favorite parts of the book would be the climatic ending battle between our heroes and the antagonists. It is not my favorite of the Xanth books, but it is notable to see how Dor changes throughout the book. The author provides a slightly different side to Queen Iris' personality at the end of the book that I appreciated when I read it again as well.
A high flying adventure!.......2004-07-17
Prince Dor has been left in charge while King Trent and Queen Iris go on a trade mission to the mysterious land of mundania.
However, something goes wrong. Trent and Iris do not return when they are suppose to and Dor is left with an upset daughter (Prinsess Irene) and the Xanth elders who all know Dor is not ready to be king.
Going against the Elders wishes Dor and Irene set off in search of Trent with an unusual magition, a half ogre, a living doll, and a pouch of magical spells, including one cursed jar of salve that makes for an interesting twist.
This adventure takes place in Xanth, Mundania present, Mundania past, and the boarder lines between Xanth and Mundania, high in the air to far beneath the ground.
Xanth lovers will relish the new and interesting puns, while newer readers will find the adventure fun and amazing at times. A must read for any interested in Xanth.
Customer Reviews:
Three for the Price of One.......2000-06-22
This is a great book to get, because it is actually three Xanth books in one. The first one, Centaur Aisle, is the fourth book in the series, and continues the mix of humorous puns, romance, and fantasy adventure as Dor is left in charge of Xanth as King Trent takes a "vacation" to Mundania (Earth). However, when the King goes missing, Dor must set out to find him, so he treks to the Southern most reaches of Xanth, the entrance to Mundania is of course to the North.
Book 5 Ogre, Ogre is a endearing tale of an Ogre who goes out on a quest, but forgets what it was he was questing for near the start of his trek. Nothing to fear though, everything works out in the end.
Book 6, Nightmare is a story about one "horses" dream to see the rainbow. Before she can though, she must save Xanth from the latest wave of Mundanians, Solve the problem of the disapearing Kings, and deal with the dastardly Horse man. All will be revealed by the end of the novel.
Three for the Price of One.......2000-06-22
This is a great book to get, because it is actually three Xanth books in one. The first one, Centaur Aisle, is the fourth book in the series, and continues the mix of humorous puns, romance, and fantasy adventure as Dor is left in charge of Xanth as King Trent takes a "vacation" to Mundania (Earth). However, when the King goes missing, Dor must set out to find him, so he treks to the Southern most reaches of Xanth, the entrance to Mundania is of course to the North.
Book 5 Ogre, Ogre is a endearing tale of an Ogre who goes out on a quest, but forgets what it was he was questing for near the start of his trek. Nothing to fear though, everything works out in the end.
Book 6, Nightmare is a story about one "horses" dream to see the rainbow. Before she can though, she must save Xanth from the latest wave of Mundanians, Solve the problem of the disapearing Kings, and deal with the dastardly Horse man. All will be revealed by the end of the novel.
Average customer rating:
|
CENTAUR AISLE
Piers Anthony
Manufacturer: Ballantine Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000V3HAPO |
Average customer rating:
|
Centaur Aisle
Piers Anthony
Manufacturer: Ballantine Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
ASIN: B000PC455Y |
Average customer rating:
|
Centaur Aisle
Piers Anthony
Manufacturer: A Del Rey Book/ Ballantine Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000NPWLRC |
Average customer rating:
|
Centaur Aisle
Piers Anthony
Manufacturer: Del Rey
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
ASIN: B000GRAA66 |
Average customer rating:
|
Centaur Aisle
Manufacturer: Del Rey Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000HEQKM6 |
Average customer rating:
|
Centaur Aisle
Manufacturer: A Del Rey Book
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000GQQVOM |
Average customer rating:
- Well written, Easy read
- thorough and versatile
- This is a great book
|
The Ultimate Body: Ten Perfect Workouts for Women
Liz Neporent
Manufacturer: Ballantine Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Exercise & Fitness
| Health, Mind & Body
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Women's Health
| Personal Health
| Health, Mind & Body
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Health, Mind & Body
| Subjects
| Books
Similar Items:
-
Total Fitness for Women: Proven Strategies to Trim Down, Firm Up and Get Fit
-
The Ultimate Body Book: 4 Weeks to Your Best Abs, Butt, Thighs, and More!
-
UltraFit: Challenging Workouts -- Amazing Results
-
The Fat-Free Truth: Real Answers to the FItness and Weight-Loss Questions You Wonder About Most
-
Shape Your Life
Accessories:
-
Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor
-
Luna Bars, Nutz Over Chocolate, 1.69-Ounce Bars (Pack of 15)
ASIN: 0345453735
Release Date: 2003-01-14 |
Book Description
Which exercises do the best job toning my thighs and legs?
What routine will really help me lose weight once and for all?
Why should I skip crunches if I’m trying to turn my beer belly into a six-pack?
If you’re looking for answers, just ask Lizzy. . . .
As America’s premier fitness guru, and the bestselling coauthor of Buns of Steel and Weight Training for Dummies, Liz Neporent has helped hundreds of satisfied individuals get in shape. Now she wants to help you! Easy-to-follow, results-oriented, and completely illustrated with photographs, The Ultimate Body is a dream come true for women looking to shed pounds, tone muscles, and feel the fittest they have ever felt in their lives. Inside you’ll discover
•
Pre-workout prep: can-do motivational strategies, goal setting, and how to develop a workout schedule that is tailor-made for you
•
The Perfect Beginner Workout: If you’re feeling out of shape, the “buff starts here”–with Modified Push-Ups, Partial Ab Rolls, and Pelvic Tilts
•
The Perfect Gym Workout: Lizzy takes you step-by-step through the most effective machine circuit at the gym–and takes away the intimidation
•
The Perfect Weight Loss Workout: Exercises that will help you lose body fat (and keep it off)–from jumping rope to Jumping Jacks
•
The Perfect Strength Workout: Muscle building and strength maximizing routines–and the secrets of the world’s strongest athletes
•
The Perfect No Crunch Abdominal Workout: Attain a flat, toned tummy–with Ball Crunches, Hovers, and Mini Leg Lowers
Plus–the
Mind-Body Workout for calming the mind . . . the
Travel Workout for keeping fit on the road . . . a
Stretch Workout for improving flexibility and posture . . . the
Perfect Legs and Butt Workout for tight buns and gorgeous gams . . . and the
Perfect Upper-Body Workout for sculpting those muscles north of the waistline!
Highlighted throughout with personal stories and anecdotes from fitness experts and people who successfully put into practice Lizzy’s routines, this accessible guide makes feeling fit and looking great a snap–go sweat!
Customer Reviews:
Well written, Easy read.......2004-03-14
Great book! Clearly written and relevant. Easy read - Great follow along photos - wonderful descriptions of the exercises.
thorough and versatile.......2003-02-28
I'm pretty pleased by this book. I am always looking for new exercises, and new ways to vary my routine, and this book delivers. It is organized into separate workouts for specific purposes, e.g. weight loss, strength. I've done several of the workouts now, and I find that you can combine them or only do part if you have limited time--a very flexible system. For example, if you don't feel like jumping around, and want a mellow workout, you can do the mind body workout followed by the stretch work out. Some of the exercises are new to me, which I appreciate. The author provides a thorough approach to fitness, and provides a lot of good information. A great addition to my collection.
This is a great book.......2003-01-20
Since I was a big fan of Liz's, I was looking forward to picking up this book. I had read Fitness for Dummies and found it to be a great guide for everything but this book is even more practical. The exercises are described in a way that's easy to follow and I "know" I'm doing them right. I also like the way the chapters are broken up. I've only had the book for a few days but I've tried out three routines and found them to be challenging. I'd recommend this book to anyone!!
Books:
- A Loving Scoundrel
- A Whisper Of Eternity
- Alice's Tulips: A Novel
- Arrow's Flight (The Heralds of Valdemar, Book 2)
- Back When We Were Grownups: A Novel (Ballantine Reader's Circle)
- Beware of Pity (New York Review Books Classics)
- Blackberry Wine: A Novel
- Blake's Illustrations for the Book of Job
- Captiva
- Carnal Innocence
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