Book Description
Archaeologist Faye Longchamp and her friend, Joe Wolf Mantooth, have traveled to Neshoba County, Mississippi, to help excavate a site near Nanih Waiya, the sacred mound where tradition says the Choctaw nation was born. When farmer Carroll Calhoun refuses their request to investigate an ancient Native American mound, Faye and her colleagues are disappointed, but his next action breaks their hearts: he tries to bulldoze the huge relic to the ground.
Faye and Joe rush to protect history--with their bodies, if necessary. Soon the Choctaws arrive to defend the mound and the farmer's white and black neighbors come to defend his property rights. Though a popular young sheriff is able to defuse the situation, tempers are short.
That night, Calhoun is found dead, his throat sliced with a handmade stone blade. Was he killed by an archaeologist, angered by his wanton destruction of history? Neshoba County farmers have been plowing up stone tools like the murder weapon for centuries. Did one of them take this chance to even the score with an old rival?
The sheriff is well-aware that Faye and Joe were near the spot where Calhoun's body was found and their combined knowledge of stone tools is impressive. They had motive, means, and opportunity....but so does almost everyone in Neshoba County.
Customer Reviews:
Entertaining but unrealistic.......2007-04-28
Faye Longchamp is on another archeological dig with her faithful friend Joe Wolf Mantooth in tow. I don't know why Joe tags along after her, especially when Faye starts dating a slick political lobbyist. I guess following Faye is Joe's unfortunate lot in life.
The archeology team hasn't been on site for a day before they instigate a confrontation that alienates both the local farmers and the indigenous Choctaw. Later that confrontation results in murder. As in Evan's previous books, Joe tops the list of likely murder suspects.
The story revolves around a new road, a pot field, an Indian mound, a county fair, cultural disagreements, a recent murder, and an old hate crime. Mary Anna Evans had to do a lot of complicated plotting to mix all those diverse things into one cohesive storyline. I'm not altogether sure she succeeded. Several portions of the book lagged seriously as the author tried to introduce new elements into the story. The county fair was a complete waste of time as was Evan's rewriting of old Indian legend. These old stories require a lot of detail and atmosphere, both are absent in this emotionless retelling.
The greatest flaw in the book was that the killer was obvious very early on. Sometimes knowing who the killer is doesn't matter, but in this case knowing is fatal to the enjoyment of the book. Another serious flaw; Evans has never been on an actual dig. She has Faye doing things with a trowel that a backhoe would struggle to accomplish.
The reason for the questions at the book's end escaped me. It seemed almost as though the author was trying to pass fiction off as serious research.
MUST READ MYSTERY.......2007-03-29
I've just finished the second reading of this third installment, which only happens with books I truly enjoy, and it was as entertaining as a the first. This is one of my favorite mystery series' because I get so caught up in the story that I don't spend a lot of time trying to think ahead of the author's vision and simply let the story unfold naturally. The characters are so thoroughly developed that I never find myself questioning their actions, as I often do with most mystery series. I don't feel that the protagonist or sidekick is ever doing something completely out of character; instead, I find myself understanding them more clearly, which is thoroughly refreshing.
Fay's honest objectivity and Joe's quiet strength and complete loyalty makes this duo irresistible and endearing, although it's obvious to everyone but herself that no one else will ever "get" Fay the way Joe does.
Mary Anna Evans, I admire your work - keep them coming!
another deep dig!.......2007-03-01
In this third mystery of this series, we are in the world of archeology with Faye Longchamp and her yummy sidekick Joe Wolf Mantooth. They have, once again, left their comfort zone of Joyeuse Island in north Florida to excavate a site for a company building a highway in Neshoba County, Mississippi. The site happens to be very close to Nanih Waiya, a mound considered sacred by the Choctaws. When the archeologists, one of them local to the area, see another `mound' across the street from where they are digging, they ask for permission to excavate it, as well. The owner, Carroll Calhoun, a local man of many years, runs them off the property and then tries to destroy the mound with a bulldozer. A community uprising ensues, with many different tensions causing it. The local sheriff is able to control the crowd and protect the mound until the laws are interpreted, but that didn't stop someone from deciding that Calhoun should die. When Joe and Faye find his body, throat slit, in a grove of marijuana plants, suspicions abound, especially on Joe because of his flint-knapping abilities. As Faye is trying to protect Joe from the outside world, she is trying to work on her assignment while also attempting to save a possible effigy, not to mention her own life and the lives of her friends. While it appears like there are many characters and stories to follow, the plot is sound, as well as the research that went into the story. There is definitely a lot of character development, and some of the descriptions make you want to go out and sift through the dirt with them.
A must read for mystery fans.......2007-02-23
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (10/06)
"Effigies" has it all. Mary Anna Evans manages to incorporate romance, archeological information, Native American history, and issues with racial prejudice in to her mystery. I loved reading this fiction novel. At the end of the book, the author has a section that discusses aspects of her story that are actually true. This made "Effigies" much more enjoyable because as she slips the well-researched information into her story, she also slips this knowledge into our minds.
The tale takes place in Mississippi. Faye and her friend Joe are excavating a Choctaw Indian site that sites near Naih Waiha which is a sacred mound. This mound sits on private property. The owner, Carroll Calhoun, is a farmer that does not want his land touched. He is afraid that he will lose the right to farm on his land if it is discovered how important this site actually is. This problem creates an interesting dilemma for the local people. The farmers want to support this farmer because they are also in danger of having to go through the same experience. The local Indians do not want the site disturbed at all. They see the archeologists as grave robbers. This creates an additional problem for one of the Choctaw Indians on the team. This matter becomes really serious when Calhoun tries to tear the mound down. He ends up getting murdered.
Before Calhoun's murder, a black politician steps forward to tell a story about an attempt that was made on his life when he was a young man in this town. He would like the people who attacked him to step forward, and to learn the identity of the man who helped rescue him. The question arises as to whether or not Calhoun was involved with this, and if his murder was related to this or to his attempted destruction of the mound. The plot thickens as certain people try to cover up the past.
"Effigies" is a story that should not be missed. I really enjoyed how well the characters are developed. It is really easy to visualize them. The descriptions of the surrounding area are vivid. I also enjoyed the Indian folklore stories that area put in between some of the chapters. It enriched my experience as a reader. I felt more in touch with the Choctaw tribe. The twists and turns of the plot kept me on the edge of my seat guessing. This story is third in the Faye Longchamp archaeological series. It was the first one for me to read and now I cannot wait to go back and read her earlier stories.
fun romantic amateur sleuth thriller.......2007-01-28
In Mississippi, archaeologist Faye Longchamp and her live-in lover Joe Wolf Mantooth lead a dig on sacred Choctaw property. Nearby is a better mound on the farm of Carroll Calhoun, who could not care less about someone else's heritage. When asked if an archeological dig could occur, Carroll says no and remarks he will bulldoze the mound before he allows the State to apply historical preservation rules and impound his property.
Nashoba County Sheriff Neely Rutland calms everyone down before a confrontation occurs. He agrees to obtain a legal opinion on the ownership and disposition of the mound. At the same time, former Congressman Lawrence Johnson Judd gives a talk about almost dying at the hands of a mob until some unknown person saved his life. Soon afterward, someone slashes Calhoun's throat and Judd is hospitalized from a near fatal drug overdose. Unable to mind her business and let Neely handle matters, Faye investigates but is unaware that she places Joe and herself in danger from a killer with motive entrenched in the county's past.
The archeology combined with Native-American lore enhances a fun romantic amateur sleuth thriller though why Faye needs to sleuth remains a question even with her work requiring plenty of clues gathering. The story line is action-packed even before the corpse is found as the audience will feel the enthusiasm of the team as they uncover their findings. The whodunit is delightfully disguised so that like the sheriff and the archeologist, readers will struggle to solve it. This is a superb murder mystery as the sum of the parts make for a fantastic whole.
Harriet Klausner
Average customer rating:
- Wolf Shadows
- bool review
- Book Review - Wolf Shadows by Mary Casanova
- Another great book
- Adam's opinion about Wolf Shadows
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Wolf Shadows
Mary Casanova
Manufacturer: Recorded Books
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ASIN: 0788760866 |
Customer Reviews:
Wolf Shadows.......2006-02-10
Seth Jabson lives in Minnisota. There house is right by the woods, Seths mom has a baby and seth has to stay at hhis freinds house.Seth and Matt decide to go hunting the next day. So the next day Matts paarents go hunting together and trusts seth and Matt to go by there selves. Seth and Matt see two Bucks clacking there antlers together on the pond. Instead of Matt shooting the deers he shoots the wolf that is near by.
This book is REALLY BORING there is no action i dont like it at all!!!!!!!!!!
bool review.......2005-02-12
In the northern woods of Minnesota, two friends, Seth and Matt love the outdoors. They enjoy going hunting when the annual deer season comes around. A few days before deer season Seth and Matt go out and set on their deer stand to scout for deer. As the last sliver of light disapears they climb down from their stand and head back for the house. As they're walking throuh the woods, they here a rustling in the brush. Seth has the feeling they're being watched by wolves. On opening day of deer season Seth and Matt spot a wolf. Seth hears a loud shot, Matt had shot the wolf.
Book Review - Wolf Shadows by Mary Casanova.......2004-01-13
The book I am reviewing is Wolf Shadows, written by Mary Casanova. This non-fiction story takes place in the Minnesota woods. The story talks about wolves and their natural territory. I would suggest this story to anyone who enjoys wildlife, and suspense. From beginning to end, this book is very exciting and moving.
The story begins with two kids named Matt and Seth. Matt enjoys hunting and lives on a farm with his mother, father and baby sister. Seth is Matt's best friend and lives with his family in the town. The two boys spend their time farming, and when the day's work is done, they go hunting for deer.
Mary Casanova writes using a third person, omniscient author style. She frequently uses words like he, she and they when telling the story. Mary Casanova uses metaphors and personification to make the story fascinating. Her simplistic approach, and realistic dialogue, helps the reader understand the story and keep interest.
I loved this book! This story was very enticing. I enjoy reading about animals and their habitat. Being that this story was based on how wolves survive, it was able to capture my interest right from the start. I would suggest this book to anyone who enjoys wildlife and nature. The exceptional storyline teaches people how to survive in the woods with wolves, and how a strong friendship can overcome any obstacle.
Another great book.......2004-01-08
This book will grip you--weither you like wolves or not. For those who hate wolves, you might pick Matt's side and for those who love em, seth's.
This book is mainly short and can be read in a single sitting. Of course, after it is done you will re-read. This book is just awesome! It teaches you to make desisions from what is right and wrong and much more then that...
A must read! Just pick it up at the library or just buy it yourself!
Adam's opinion about Wolf Shadows.......2001-06-01
Wolf Shadows taught me that friendship is very fragile and no matter how close you are it can still break. Wolf Shadows is a good book about friendship and adveture. I really loved Wolf Shadows.
Book Description
Two delightful Regencies...
One delightful volume...
His Lordship's Mistress:
Jessica O'Neill's stage career made her the toast of London society. But no one suspected her true identity as a high-born lady risking her good name to save her family from ruin. And when the handsome Earl of Linton approaches her with an offer she can't reject, Jessica must learn to play a wealth-hunting wanton to the hilt-and avoid falling in love.
"Joan Wolf is absolutely wonderful. I've loved her work for years."-Iris Johanson
"Joan Wolf never fails to deliver the best."-Nora Roberts
Married by Mistake:
Florence Washburn had Kit Swinton firmly in mind as her intended mate. So how on earth did she stumble into marriage with his infamous elder brother instead? Viscount Alford wasn't the man she planned to wed, and now it seems he's not the notorious rake he pretends to be either. In fact, Florence is charmed by the frightfully, clumsy oaf he actually is. Perhaps this marriage will turn out to be the best mistake she ever made...
"Melinda McRae crafts another superb Regency delight."-Romantic Times
"A stellar talent."-Romantic Times
Customer Reviews:
worth reading for Married by Mistake!.......2005-12-05
His lordship's mistress: i give it a 3. It is well enough written, the plot is entertaining. But I just didn't feel the 'romance'. There was not enough tension between the two principal characters...and so many occurences where not elaborated upon and we learn about them second hand, or we just get a short blurb on the subject. For instance, I would have liked read about what happened when Jess was abducted. The book just didn't impress me.
Married by Mistake: 5! this is the first book I have read by this author and Oh my God, I was blown away. This is exactly the kind of regency I love...It is full of delightful humor, the characters seem all the more real for their faults (I loved the fact that Forrie could be a little short tempered with servants! You can't really expect all heroines in novels to be 100% perfect...I think that would be boring).
The tension between her and Alford was great! I also thought the ghost was a nice touch.
I stayed up 4 hours later than I should have reading this...(well, it only took me 4 hours) but it was worth it! I highly recommend this book, however, you can also buy it as an individual title.
A delightful two-fer!.......2001-05-28
Even if I didn't care for--or read--His Lordship's Mistress, although I did, I would still have given this book 5 stars. Married by Mistake has been on my list of top ten Regency favorites since I read it when it was new, and re-reading it now has only confirmed my good sense in having put it there in the first place. The writing is crisp and clean and immensely witty, the plot devious and charming; and actually those two words can easily be applied to both the hero and the heroine. Because really, it's the combination of the devious and the charm that leads to the accidental marriage of Viscount Alford to Florence Washburn in the first place.
The Viscount is supposed to stand proxy for his brother Kit, the long-time fiancé of Florrie, who spent time with the two young men during their youth. Florrie's father is in the diplomatic corps and she loves that life, so it seems only natural to marry Kit, who's really almost more of a brother than a lover, but who is also heading for that same sort of career.
Mishap after mishap follows, however, leaving Florrie and Alford married by mistake, but to each other. The two fathers conspire to send them away from the gossips in London, and in a month or two, an annulment can be sought. Needless to say, the young couple has no idea they'll end up together.
In the wilds of Devon, accessible only by a once-a-week dogcart, Hartland has a custodian couple, and little else to recommend it. Except for the resident ghost, and the hidden passage, and the smugglers and so on. Florrie and Alford take turns trying to disconcert the other, but usually ending up drawing even closer together, as their various secrets are revealed. Slowly, the past perceptions are replaced by the current consciousness, and suddenly, an annulment doesn't seem quite so desirable after all.
Part romance, part gothic, part adventure, part Taming of the Shrew--but in the end, ALL the parts add up to pure enjoyment for the reader.
==============================
His Lordship's Mistress is another kind of Regency tale, entirely. I must have read it, earlier on, as well, but it didn't leave as deep an impression on me. Certainly it's well-crafted, with a determined and engaging heroine, Jessica Andover, and a hero--Phillip Romney, the earl of Linton, who shows an unusual degree of kindness and consideration towards her.
Having been victimized by a greedy step-father, and left nearly destitute--with her two young half-brothers--Jessica determines to find a way to salvage the family home. Only in that way--belief in herself--can she ensure the future of the two boys, who will need what she can give them.
Taking no one into her confidence, she heads to London, where she uses her own very specialized education--excellent speech and diction, plus a thorough knowledge of Shakespeare--she auditions at Covent Garden Theatre. She'd hoped for a bit part, but to her surprise, was cast in a leading part, all the better for her plan--to find a wealthy man and become his mistress.
Her plans work better than she'd hoped; she is a success on the stage, and finds the man to whom she can give herself. Of course, life is not a play, and the final act is not as she'd envisioned it. It was money that was the goal--not falling in love. Having earned enough to pay off the mortgage, however, she returns home to let her wounds--and her heart--heal. Philip, however, takes her abandonment very hard, and determines to find her. And when he does--she won't get away from him again....
I really like this concept--two full length previously-published stories in one volume, for barely more than the price of one new book. I hope we see more of them. (Hint, hint.)
Uneven Pairing.......2001-01-31
Loved the Joan Wolf section but never could get into the second story...The story is typical Joan Wolf with a strong woman and children and animals. Nice light reading
Two for one.......2001-01-21
I would really give this book a 4 1/2 star, I would give "His Lordship's Mistress" a 5 and "Married By Mistake" a 4. I really enjoyed Ms. Wolf's novel, Jessica would do anything to save her family except get married to a neighbor. So she decides to go to London and work in the theater, knowing she can find a gentlemen who will pay her to become his mistress. She finds the gentlemen in Phillip Romney, Earl of Linton, they both fall in love. Jessica hadn't plan on love, and she is to popular as an actress to just disappear and return to London as a lady, she knows her and Linton's love can never be. But Linton has other plans, he proposes marriage, his family and friends are scandalize. Jessica runs away thinking she is doing the best for Linton. After a time, he finds her again, all is worked out, his family excepts her. This story was very well written, I cound feel Jessica pain and everything she had to go through.
The second story, "Married By Mistake" two head strong people who dislikes each other since a childhood incident become married. Both Alfond and Florrie are tricked into leaving London for a desolate place in the country. Since transportation is hard to come by and it has been raining the two end up together for a week. Alfond comes up with ways to make her return to London. Both learn the other is not what they thought. And the two of them learn of a smuggling ring and a possible ghost on the grounds. This story was entertaining, but not like His Lordship's Mistress. At first I real took a strong dislike to Florrie, she was very spoiled, didn't care about her servants or know their names. Didn't know how to go with the flow of things, she wanted everything her way and if it wasn't going to plan she gets upset. The story gets better, and she doesn't come across too bossy.
A reader will enjoy both books, but I like Wolfe's a little better.
A slightly uneven pairing.......2001-01-07
I must admit I bought this book solely for Joan Wolf's name on the cover. I have read some of Melinda McRae's work, though, so I thought I would enjoy her novella too. Although the book cover hypes the two stories as similar, they don't really have all that much in common besides the Regency setting.
The first story, His Lordship's Mistress, is the tale of a young woman who will do anything she can to save her family's home. You get the basic idea from the title. The second, Married by Mistake, deals with a couple who, due to their fathers' meddling, end up wed to each other unawares--a proxy marriage gone awry. They squabble their way through a smuggling subplot to find they love each other after all.
Both of these stories were easy, light reading. I preferred Joan Wolf's tale, but that may just be a matter of personal preference. If you're looking for something to keep you occupied in the waiting room or while traveling, I would recommend this book.
Average customer rating:
- What a wonderful book
- Excellent version of the Arthur legends
- 4.5 stars of historical romantic fiction-not fantasy-about King Arthur
- A Fresh Perspective On King Arthur Without Lancelot!
- Outstanding!
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The Road to Avalon
Joan Wolf
Manufacturer: Chicago Review Press
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ASIN: 155652658X |
Book Description
The pageantry and passionate intrigues of King Arthur’s court are expertly re-created in this historical novel—the only Arthurian novel in which all of the central characters are portrayed as intrinsically good people. This realistic retelling of the legend shows Arthur severing the bonds of bastardy, vanquishing the Saxons, and loving one woman. As the daring teenage warrior prepares for the throne, he discovers true love with Morgan of Avalon, the youngest of Merlin’s daughters, but fate cruelly thwarts their hopes for a future together. Never before has a telling of the Arthur story made the breathtaking drama of this charismatic king more real or moving.
Customer Reviews:
What a wonderful book.......2007-06-13
I will keep this short and simple Mrs. Wolf is one of the best writers around. I loved this book it was worth every penny and I plan to keep it and read again one day.
Excellent version of the Arthur legends.......2006-07-03
This was a great read -- could not put it down. It was wonderful to start with the young Arthur and the experiences that made him the man - king -- that he was. The love story between Arthur and Morgan is truly heartbreaking and will bring tears to your eyes. The scene where Arthur comes face to face with the son he didn't know he had is gut wrenching.
I highly recommend this book, as well as the other two that follow in this trilogy, Born of the Sun and The Edge of Light. I wish the author would return to this style and quality of writing as opposed to the light fluffy regencies she is currently writing.
4.5 stars of historical romantic fiction-not fantasy-about King Arthur.......2006-04-13
The Road to Avalon is the story of King Arthur written as pure historical fiction with very elements of fantasy. This makes it quite a different story from the one that is normally told. There is no magic, no dragons, no quest for the Holy Grail and such things as are normally incorporated into the story.
Uther Pendragon and Igrane married and three months later had a son. Because Igrane was married to another man when the son was conceived (though it was Uther's child) they thought it best that the child not be Uther's heir. So he was sent away to be raised with peasants. Fast forward nine years and Igrane has had no other living children, so Uther sends his father in law, Merlin, to fetch young Arthur and raise him to be a king. Only when Merlin finds him he discovers the boy has endured years of abuse. He takes him home to his villa, Avalon, and raises him along side his eight year old daughter Morgan. But he never tells Arthur who he is.
Morgan and Arthur grow up together and are in love. But Arthur is reveled to be the next High King when he is 16 and he learns Morgan is his half-aunt and he can never marry her. They end their relationship. Arthur doesn't want to live without Morgan but she knows the country needs him and sends him away.
You can guess the rest. This is a lovely version of the classic Camelot tale and is very romantic and sweet. My only complaint is that Morgan doesn't have much of a personality-she's basically a reflection of Arthur, who is a lovely portrayal of a tortured soul who only exists because of love. And the choice she made about not marrying Arthur because they couldn't have children after her son Mordred was born seems stupid. I don't think that she did it purely so Mordred could have a happy childhood-she could have made him happy with her and Arthur. But other than that she's a great charecter. And it is nice how no one is really evil in this book or wholly unlikable-everyone is portrayed very fairly.
Anyway, good book. Four point five stars.
A Fresh Perspective On King Arthur Without Lancelot!.......2005-05-10
An incredible version of King Arthur sans Lancelot. This is the story of Arthur, and his more than humble beginnings, until Merlin tells him years after he "adopted" him that he is the heir to the British throne after Uther. He is Uther and Igraine's legitimate son. While Merlin is preparing him to be a leader whilst living in Avalon with his daughter Morgan, the two children develop a lasting friendship that turns into love. He doesn't know for years that Uther is his father, Igraine his mother, Merlin his grandfather and Morgan his aunt until he is to be king. By then it is too late to stop the love between Morgan and Arthur.
He becomes king but he still wants to marry Morgan. Merlin & Morgan warn him that the threat of incest will impede his reign and tell him it's impossible to marry her. He does eventually marry Gwenhwyfar in a loveless marriage to produce an heir while continuing his relationship with Morgan. Meanwhile, Gwenhwyfar finds comfort with Bedwyr with Arthur's knowledge and unspoken permission. Morgan has been keeping a secret from Arthur for 15 years that also comes out.
Read this book! It's a refreshing storyline that I haven't encountered before. Bedwyr is Gwenhwyfar's lover and there is no Lancelot to fuddle things up as usual. Mordred is portrayed as a very unwordly teen and unsure of himself and others. Agravaine is as obnoxious and cunning as he usually is in other novels. Gwenhwyfar is in love with two men. Finally, the relationship between Arthur and Morgan is not a simple one but a lasting one.
Outstanding!.......2005-03-11
I am a lover of Arthurian legend; a fierce lover. I find it dissapointing that most books on this subject are never about Arthur. It's always Lancelot, Guenevere, or any other character authors create. Then came Joan Wolf, daring to write a book of Arthur about Arthur. And not just the stupid, unimaginate character depicted by many writers, but a man among men, not only with a dream, but with the brilliance to carry it through. An Arthur who is more than Guenevere's lap dog. Hurray for Ms. Wolf!
You find all the elements that make a book outstanding here: chivalry, adventure, battles, blood, love, friendship . . . and that beautiful love story between Arthur and Morgan.
This book is a must for every Arthurian lover. I highly recommend it!
Book Description
“This honest man, this good man, this man who never did wrong to anyone, who devoted his life to the public good, and who was one of the greatest writers in Algeria, has been murdered. . . . Not by accident, not by mistake, but called by his name and killed with preference.” So wrote Germaine Tillion in Le Monde shortly after Mouloud Feraoun’s assassination by a right wing French terrorist group, the Organisation Armée Secrète, just three days before the official cease-fire ended Algeria’s eight-year battle for independence from France.
However, not even the gunmen of the OAS could prevent Feraoun’s journal from being published. Journal, 1955–1962 appeared posthumously in French in 1962 and remains the single most important account of everyday life in Algeria during decolonization.
Feraoun was one of Algeria’s leading writers. He was a friend of Albert Camus, Emmanuel Roblès, Pierre Bourdieu, and other French and North African intellectuals. A committed teacher, he had dedicated his life to preparing Algeria’s youth for a better future. As a Muslim and Kabyle writer, his reflections on the war in Algeria afford penetrating insights into the nuances of Algerian nationalism, as well as into complex aspects of intellectual, colonial, and national identity. Feraoun’s Journal captures the heartbreak of a writer profoundly aware of the social and political turmoil of the time. This classic account, now available in English, should be read by anyone interested in the history of European colonialism and the tragedies of contemporary Algeria.
Customer Reviews:
Appropriate reading at a time like this.......2001-12-07
First, I will comment on the book itself from an American point of view. The book is not easy to read because it is not a book: it is the author's journal he kept during the French Algerian War. Knowing that still, his journal entries, which at the beginning were frequent and detailed, were focused on keeping track of who was killed, tortured or who was doing the killings. It was as if the author, Mr. F.(his notation of using people's initials to hide their identity from I suppose the French secret police), was keeping a testimony of the murders occurring all around him as evidence. This makes for dull reading; however, given the events of 9-11, I made a valiant effort to immerse myself into the author's mind and try to understand this incredibly brutal civil war.
(...)
Essential Reading On Algeria For English Reader.......2001-07-20
There are a few important works on the Algerian Civil War available for the English reader. Franz Fannon, Alistair Horne's history, the film "Battle of Algiers, and recently Feraoun's diary are the ones that readily come to mind. Feraoun was a western educated Algerian and well accquainted with the French. His desire for an independent Algeria was strong, but tempered by a strong sense of historical reality. He reveals the day to day impact of the violence. It is in this respect that the work is most moving, and reveals the senselessness and degradation that occurs to all people involved, Feraoun eventually a victim himself. An essential view of the psychological costs of guerrilla and anti-colonial war.
Book Description
Significant changes in the national demography bring us to a turning point in our understanding of older adults, in the challenges they are likely to face, and in the contribution learning may make to their later years. This sourcebook views learning as a response to the various challenges confronting older adults and describes that learning within the context of present practice and future challenges. Combining theory and research in educational gerontology with the practice of older adult learning and education, this volume explores issues and policies related to older adult education in academic and community settings. It is designed for educators and others concerned with the phenomenon of aging in America and with the continuing development of the field of educational gerontology. This is the 77th volume of the quarterly journal New Directions for Adult and Continuing Education.
Average customer rating:
- Unexpectedly enjoyable
- Repeats
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Captured Hearts, Five Favorite Love Stories: Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know/ The Antagonists/ Buried Treasure/ Fathers and Daughters/ Precious Rogue
Mary Jo Putney ,
Mary Balogh ,
Joan Wolf ,
Edith Layton , and
Patricia Rice
Manufacturer: Topaz
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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Balogh, Mary
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Wolf, Joan
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Rakes and Rogues
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ASIN: 0451408837 |
Customer Reviews:
Unexpectedly enjoyable.......2001-11-16
Anyone who's seen reviews I've written of other anthologies might be expecting a poor review here. But actually, not in this case. For once, I seem to have stumbled across an anthology in which the individual novellas are all very readable, enjoyable, and which suit the format of a shorter length. This is particularly surprising in the case of this anthology, in which all stories are about 70 pages long.
Three of my favourite writers are in this five-author anthology, which might have contributed to my enjoyment - but then Putney and Layton's novellas are not set in eighteenth- or nineteenth-century England, which is the setting I'm used to from them.
There is something of a theme to the collection, in that four out of five stories concern men who are or who appear to be rogues, and who reform right under the heroine's nose. MJP's contribution, set in Texas a hundred or so years ago, sees a condemned man being taken to hang for murder. Along the way, a young woman - who, it turns out, might have good reason to hate him - takes pity on him and they spend one unforgettable night together. But he's condemned to die, so how can they have a future?
Joan Wolf, an author I've never encountered before, sets her story, The Antagonists, in Regency England; the hero and heroine are cousins who grew up together. I would normally have wanted much more to this story, but Wolf uses an interesting technique. The story is told in first person, from the heroine's POV. And since Dinah starts off by telling us how spoilt and nasty her cousin Thorn (the Earl of Thornton) is, we're led off on quite a misleading track. (Although Dinah does reveal that she has a tendency to exaggerate!)
Layton's contribution, Buried Treasure, was the disappointment in this collection for me. A pirate narrowly survives a murder attempt and recovers in the house of a beautiful young woman whose seduction he plots. Unfortunately, for reasons related to both his behaviour towards her and to his fellow pirates, I couldn't come to like Dancer at all, and wouldn't want to re-read this novella.
Next was Patricia Rice, also new to me; her tale, Fathers and Daughters, covers the well-worn subject-matter of an impoverished suitor who was turned away by the heroine's father. Carolyn also believes that Jack accepted money from her father to walk away from her. Now that he's back, can he possibly convince her that he wasn't only interested in her money, and that he wasn't paid to reject her?
Finally, Mary Balogh's Precious Rogue. This is a lovely story, told with Balogh's great skill; Patricia, the poor relation who is effectively her aunt's slave, has no great opinion of her cousin's suitor, Mr Bancroft. After all, the man is an unprincipled rake, and - although no-one else seems to notice - during Patricia's aunt's house party Bancroft conducts clandestine affairs with at least three women. But what Patricia can't ignore is the fact that he is *nice* to her. And she enjoys their verbal fencing... too much for her own good. After all, he's going to marry her cousin...
This one is certainly worth a look.
Repeats.......1999-08-13
The stories are good, but have all been published before. According to the Copyright page "The Antagonist" by Joan Wolf and "Fathers and Daughters" by Patricia Rice first appeared in A Regency Valentine; "Buried Treasure" by Edith Layton and "Precious Rogue" by Mary Balogh in Dashing & Dangerous; and "Mad, Bad, and Dangerous to Know" by Mary Jo Putney in Rakes and Rogues. I had already read Putney's story (very good, but then everything she writes is) but was glad to get Wolf's (although I think a longer format suits her better) and I really liked Balogh's (very satisfying - nice ending)
Book Description
Here is the complete original text of Mary Shelley's classic 1816 novel, fully annotated with thousands of fascinating facts and legends. Includes: background on the Romantic spirit that infuses the novel; commentary by leading contemporary writers; a selected filmography of major Frankenstein films; and dozens of illustrations.
Customer Reviews:
Fascinating.......2006-01-05
The footnotes really do invigorate this somewhat over-inflated classic (even Mary Shelley herself described her style as being "without pity for my reader"). The footnotes contain wonderful arcane and scandalous facts about the lives and love-lives of all those who inhabited Geneva that rainy summer and all those related to them: Shelley, Byron et al. I'm looking forward to acquiring Mr Wolf's annotated _Dracula_.
THE DEFINITIVE FRANKENSTEIN!!!.......2004-12-25
Editor Leonard Wolf has "given life" (pun intended) to Mary Wollestonecraft Shelley's classic. (this is the edition published in 1818) Thousands of facts on every aspect of the inspiration and evolution of the story as well as commentaries by Robert Bloch, Leonard Maltin, Forrest J. Ackerman and others. A Frankenstein filmography is also included as well as copies of Shelley's handwitten notes along with her original introduction to the 1831 edition of the book. For lovers of classic gothic horror, this edition should be the only version on your bookshelf....right next to Wolf's equally well done version of Bram Stoker's Dracula!
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- "Something Awful Had Happened to Him..."
- A Walk in Wolf Wood
- A Walk in Wolf Wood
- "Wood" is great fun
- A Walk in Wolf Wood
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Walk in Wolf Wood
Mary Stewart
Manufacturer: Fawcett
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
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ASIN: 0449214222
Release Date: 1987-02-12 |
Book Description
Two children picnicking with their parents in Wolf Wood are sent back into the world of the fourteenth century to rescue a kindly werewolf from a terrible fate. Illustrated with half-tones.
Customer Reviews:
"Something Awful Had Happened to Him...".......2007-01-12
Mary Stewart is best known for her Merlin-themed books (including "The Crystal Cave"), which are geared toward slightly older readers, but "A Walk in Wolf Woods", (along with "The Little Broomstick" and "Ludo and the Star Horse" are wonderful books to make accessible to younger readers. Told in clear, descriptive prose, with plenty of adventure and mystery, plus a few nuggets of wisdom, Stewart's novels are a great addition to any child's library.
John and Margaret Begbie are enjoying a holiday picnic when they are distracted by the sight of a distraught, weeping man rushing into the forest. Even odder, the man appears to be dressed in clothing from another era: a tunic and hose, cloak and knife, and a beautiful gold medallion. Compelled to follow him, the children creep into the forest till they reach a ramshackle cottage where they hear an extraordinary story from its inhabitant. The weeping man is Lord Mardian, and the gold medallion was a gift from his dearest friend Duke Otho. But thanks to an evil enchanter named Almeric, the friendship has been sundered and Mardian is cursed to roam as a wolf whenever the sun goes down.
The children have inadvertently time-shifted back into the 13th century, and Mardian sees in them the chance to see things set right. Lending them his gold medallion, he charges them with the task of delivering it into the hand of Duke Otho and explaining his story to his former friend. Then perhaps, the spell will be broken. But the children must first adjust to life in the distant past, and the wiles of the evil Almeric, who has disguised himself as Mardian and dwells within the court itself, whispering poison in the ears of Otho's son Crispen.
"A Walk in Wolf Woods" is a pleasant and exciting read for the under-10s, and is of particular interest is the way Stewart incorporates legitimate information about the medieval period into the text, as well as paragraphs of unsurpassed wisdom. How many children's books do you read these days that has a paragraph like this in it: "They knew that, if you find some person or creature in desperate need of help which you can supply, you have a human duty to supply it, even if it could inconvenience you or even hurt you to do so. This, after all, is how the greatest and best deeds in the world have been done, and though the children did not say this aloud, they knew it inside themselves without even thinking about it."
It isn't all perfect; a character named Lady Blancheflower is introduced as a possible threat to the children (having seen them outside the castle walls) only to totally disappear from the action, and Almeric is a trifle bland as the lead villain (he's your typical tyrant who wants to take over the land), but nonetheless, this is a top-notch novel for young readers.
A Walk in Wolf Wood.......2004-10-13
I really liked the book A Walk in Wolf Wood because it was a good easy read. Although it was easy to read it was not a boring book. I love books that take place in the Middle Ages like this one. It is full of enchantments and friendships. Parts of this book reminded me of Harry Potter books. This book kept me on my toes to find out what would happen next. There was always a new twist or turn when I thought that I had it figured out. The end was great, not one of those that let you down.
A Walk in Wolf Wood.......2004-03-23
When I started to read this book, it wasn't counfusing, but it was, diferent... I liked it, as far as "two kids, cought in the mid evil time, that has a friend that turns in to a evil beast of terror, in the night.." It's a good plot, it just doesn't suite me. But every person has they're opinions. Any way, so I would have to say this book is for any one who is an adventurest person.
No offence, but i couldn't really get into this book. But that doesn't mean you can't! It's a good book. Read it, see if you like it. And if you don't, hey, at least you tried. And if you do like it. hey, cool, good for you.
So like i said before, every one has they're own opinions, I'm just telling you mine. I'm sorry if this didn't help you alot, or at all. But, you know, at least I tried.
"Wood" is great fun.......2002-08-01
"A Walk in Wolf Wood" is one of the lesser-known works of Mary Stewart, famed for her Merlin trilogy. It's an enjoyable short fantasy, with good heroes and an original plotline focusing on betrayal, time-travel, werewolves, and a royal intrigue that sucks in two modern children.
John and Margaret are on a family picnic with their parents, who doze off and allow the kids to go wandering in the woods. When they see a man dressed in sumptuous clothes from the Middle-Ages, naturally they are intrigued. As they follow him, they find a golden pendant, the tracks of a wolf, and a ramshackle cottage where the man is sleeping.
The man, they find, is a nobleman named Mardian who was betrayed by a sorcerer, in an effort to alienate him from his lord and friend Duke Otho. Mardian was transformed into a werewolf -- man by day, wolf by night -- and is hunted by the Duke's men. Mardian's main goal, however, is to save Otho and his son Crispin from Almeric's plots and sorcery. But he can't go near the castle. So John and Margaret agree to infiltrate the castle and try to defeat Almeric -- a task which proves much more difficult than they had thought.
Mary Stewart writes a simply-plotted but enjoyable story, with an interesting storyline and a quick pace. Her third-person writing style makes it a little difficult to get into the heads of the lead characters, but they are still very engaging. Her descriptions of the castle, the forest, and the people around Margaret and John are detailed without being too much so. And her handling of such worn ideas as werewolves and time-travel are deft and cliche-less.
Margaret and John are the now-classic British-kids-on-vacation, who stumble onto something strange and get sucked into an adventure. They're moderately smart, a little confused, and quite willing to go along with whatever strange things are going on. Mardian is a quiet, tragic type who is determined to
fix the situation in the castle, while Almeric is simply pure evil. Prince Crispin is a good supporter to the two leads, though not quite as interesting as they are.
This is an enjoyable fantasy for all ages, with good plotting and a classic pair of lead characters. "Walk" goes plenty of places, all of them interesting.
A Walk in Wolf Wood.......2002-05-09
The book was recieved in a timely manner and was in exellent condition for a used book. I would recommend this seller's selection to anyone.
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