History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.

When Darkness Comes (Guardians of Eternity, Book 1)

Average customer rating:

Three and a Half Stars
Funny Dialogue, Enjoyable Book
Abby, the potty-mouthed nag hag heroine.
Dull, confusing and weak character development
Weak Characters

When Darkness Comes (Guardians of Eternity, Book 1)
Alexandra Ivy
Manufacturer: Zebra
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Fantasy, Futuristic & Ghost | Romance | Subjects | Books

General | Romance | Subjects | Books

General | Contemporary | Romance | Subjects | Books

Vampires | Romance | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Horror Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Romance Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Fantasy, Futuristic & Ghost | Romance | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

General | Romance | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0821779354

Customer Reviews:

Three and a Half Stars.......2007-09-01

Following an incident in her employer's house, Abby Barlow has become the Chalice. She and Dante (the Chalice's vampire protector) set out to discover how this has happened and if there is any way for this process to be reversed.

I've been reading a lot of first books in a series, recently, and this (Book 1 of the Guardians of Eternity) is a definite improvement on most of them.

The book starts with a bang, and the plot doesn't let up 'til about page 180. Unfortunately because it starts at this breakneck speed it does have some uneven pacing, with the middle of the book lagging a little before picking up again.

The characters are well written and there is an undeniable chemistry between Dante and Abby. Dante has a dry sense of humour, with which he is only too happy, to provoke Abby. And the banter between the pair really brings them to life. Though I could have done without being constantly reminded how terrible Abby's early life was.

The secondary characters are well fleshed out, in particular Viper who on first meeting Abby practically oozes sex across the page. I wish we could have spent more time with him and also Troy and The Shalott. (But it isn't their book, fingers crossed we will be seeing more of them in the future). The bad guys are not two-dimensional and their motivations are well explained.

It's not perfect, as well as the above-mentioned pacing problem, there is a reliance on some coincidences to keep the plot moving and I noticed one slip in continuity.

However, it held my interest and I'm looking forward to picking up the second book in the series Embrace the Darkness which will feature Viper and The Shalott.

Funny Dialogue, Enjoyable Book.......2007-08-17

I just finished this book. I did not have any expectations and was pleasantly suprised at how funny the dialogue was. I enjoyed Dante's character, but I loved Viper. I am looking forward to reading his story in Embrace the Darkness (book 2).

If you enjoy paranormal romance, I recommend giving this series a try.

Abby, the potty-mouthed nag hag heroine........2007-07-29

This book is unspeakably awful. The clues are there from the very first page.

First clue. The copyright is owned not by Alexandra Ivy, but by Debbie Raleigh. Which probably means Debbie who lives in Raleigh NC. A whole different ballgame from Alexandra Ivy.

Second clue. On page 13 the heroine says she's an idiot 'when it comes to choosing men.' That means she's had a lot of relationships. That many of them have gone bad. And that she's chosen to blame herself entirely. In other words...a doormat tenement ho'. Well. If you make your partner choices based entirely on looks no wonder things can go a little wrong.

The heroine says she's 'passably average' in the looks department. Passably? Does that mean she is plug-ugly? But all the handsome vampire warriors think she's lovely. Are they blind or just stupid?

Both Dante and Viper talk about the heroine Abby's 'innocence and purity.' Ha, ha, haaa. On nearly every page she's using a phrase like 'Holy hell, holy crap, freaking this, freaking that.' She's a D.O.G. (with capitals) I know some romance readers get very excited when a no-class dog has a handsome guy fall for her. I'm not one of those readers. I tend to feel sorry for the guy. Saddled with a hag as a partner. Or in Dante's case; a nag hag. Because, boy, does Abby whine and like to have the last word. Which is usually a curse. So actually, Dante ends up with a potty-mouthed nag hag.

And who on earth still eats pancakes, eggs and bacon for breakfast?? Apart from our heroine Abby that is. She will be a 20-plus size before she is 30-years old.

Just why does Abby find it so hard to get proper work? Her cultural references seem to be TV soaps, Buffy, Dawn of the Dead and shopping in malls. So obviously she's not had an education. Why is she so convinced she'll end up as a bag-lady pushing a shopping cart around? Ok, her parents were not the greatest but it's not as though either they or her six siblings are still around to weigh down her life. At one point Abby says she's afraid of becoming 'a cheap hooker servicing drunks in a sleazy motel.' But that is exactly how she talks and behaves for the whole of the novel. This is not a heroine who has any good aspirations of what she is going to do with her life. I thought Buffy was a middle-class teenager not a no-class loser.

Later there is a petty squabble between the main couple about whether he thinks she is stupid. The poor guy has to spend time stroking her horrible, shallow ego. How is that of any relevance to the plot?

There is a mystery in this story. Why did Selena, the supposed all powerful previous Chalice, die? But this question is dragged out for the whole of the book. The hero, Dante, who's mission is to protect the Chalice, hasn't a clue. Or a clue about getting a clue. He confesses that he spent his time lusting after Abby instead of carrying out his job. Jerk.

This novel has everything in it. Witches, zombies, lightning-bolt shooting wizards, onion (?) demons, and vampires who are not afraid to sink their fangs into their enemies. None of it amounts to anything like a coherent plot. Just one lightweight TV episode after another. Suddenly in chapter 12 the chief baddie, up til that point known as 'The Master' changes into someone called 'Rafael.' So he promptly loses all his charisma and mystique, becoming just another expendable bozo in the process. And around this point it also becomes clear that someone changed their mind about who was going to be the chief baddie in the story. The focus becomes the witches not the wizard.

Like I said. Awful.

Dull, confusing and weak character development.......2007-06-17

As someone already mentioned the endearment lover was used and every time I read it it felt wrong. The endearment Love would have worked much better.

I have no idea who these characters. We get a whole bunch of awful stuff from Abby about how horrible her life was, but nothing in how she acts is really influenced by her past. I have no idea how she came to work at the mansion for Selene. I have no idea why should would be attracted to Dante after initially being introduced to him as an irritant. I have no really good idea why he is an irritant. I have no idea what this world is? Does everyone know about the paranormal or is there and underground of it? What is this clan that Dante belongs to? What does it consist of? Who is the head of it and if Vampires are a solitary lot why is there a Clan? is there more than one clan?

The writing is subpar. The descriptions of scenes are usually very difficult to figure out.

In the beginning we meet Abby wondering wondering what to do about a broken Ming vase. She's on the ground getting ready to hide the pieces when Dante enters the room. She turns around and blocks the view of the broken vase. How she can block the view of the broken vase from someone who is standing, I don't understand, but she does. In that same scene there is a mention of her not backing up because she will back into the broken pieces then then a big bang and she's knocked onto her back. But she doesn't land on the broken pieces.

Another scene that I still don't know what I missed after reading 4 times, Dante is giving Abby a bath in a, I'm pretty sure, sunken bath tub. I never read that he took his clothes off or that she was taken out of the bath or the water was drained. One minute she's lifting her damp arms to pull him closer and closer he comes. After that interlude he does dry her off and lifts her and takes her to the bed, that is covered in silk sheets and puts her to bed. She asks him to stay with her and he gets into bed. This whole scene I'm wonder how he's not dripping and how he manages to not make the bed wet.

This is a poorly written and poorly edited book.

Weak Characters.......2007-06-12

I have been reading the vampire genre for quite some time now and there are many authors out there who do a remarkable job weaving their stories of these otherworldly cast of characters.

Unfortunately, this wasn't one of them. I really tried to get into this story but I found the main characters lacking in depth. Dante had the potential to be a great hero vampire but regrettably, the author didn't delve into the character enough. He was bound to the chalice for the soul purpose of protecting her. Where were those great powers that he should have been endowed with to enable him to fulfill the job. As for chemistry between Dante and Abby, there was none... Yes there were sex scenes, but I couldn't see where Dante's attraction to Abby stemmed from. There were also too many contradictions in Abby's character for me to connect with her.

The story line sounded great, but unfortunately it did not hold up to what I expected. If you truley want to read some great masters of the vampire genre, I would recommend Sherrilyn Kenyon, J.R. Ward and Kresley Cole.

Embraced By Darkness (Riley Jensen, Guardian, Book 5)

Average customer rating:

Couldn't put the book down!
Wanting more
Fifth in the 'Riley Jenson, Guardian' series
wonderful author
Riley Jensen Series

Embraced By Darkness (Riley Jensen, Guardian, Book 5)
Keri Arthur
Manufacturer: Dell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

Contemporary | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

General | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

Urban | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

Dark | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

Australia & New Zealand | World Literature | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Science Fiction & Fantasy Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 055358961X
Release Date: 2007-07-31

Book Description

She's hunting a killer—
and shattering every boundary—
she's ever known.…

Part vamp, part werewolf, Riley Jenson plays by her own rules, whether it’s her stormy love life or her job as a guardian. But when her family’s alpha male demands that she solve the mystery of a vanished girl, Riley can feel a trap closing in around her. Because the job comes with a catch: if Riley fails, her own mother will die.

Now the stakes are raised, the hunt is on...and when more women vanish, Riley is caught between a lover who demands that she give up her work, a serial killer who knows no boundaries, and a club where humans and supernaturals mix—at their own peril. Thrust into a realm of seduction and violence unlike any she could have imagined, Riley has to battle to save everything she holds dear. But the ultimate hunt has only just begun....

Customer Reviews:

Couldn't put the book down!.......2007-09-21

Like all the other Riley Jensen guardian books, I couldn't put the book down! Hopefully they're be more books of the series ahead because the end leaves you wanting more!

Wanting more.......2007-09-13

I can't wait for the next one! I even got my family hooked on the series.

Fifth in the 'Riley Jenson, Guardian' series.......2007-08-27

This book is a real improvement over Keri Arthur's earlier stories in Riley Jenson, Guardian series - there is a greater focus on plotting and characterisation and less emphasis on sex to carry the story along. The book starts with Riley on holiday on an island to recover from all the events of the last year (and last four books). She is contacted there by a member of her former pack who demands that she looks into the disappearance of a pack member, Adrienne, and threatens to hurt Riley and Rhoan's mother if she doesn't comply. Shortly afterwards the Directorate ask her to look into the strange murder of a woman who appears to have been torn limb from limb by her fiancé and Riley discerns a supernatural element to the crime. She works on both investigations at the same time, also finding herself under attack from an unknown assailant, dealing with the memories that contact with her pack has dredged up, and trying to make sense of her relationship with Kellen who wants to 'go solo' with her. Riley's not sure if she can commit to that and clearly has some feelings still for vampire Quinn, although he doesn't appear in person in this story.

The plotting in this book was excellent with good pacing and with the variety of two simultaneous investigations. The caustic relationship between Riley and Salliane, 'The Cow', is very amusing, and adds some light relief in a story with a fair amount of darkness. Riley's skills are growing and strengthening and she discovers a new aspect of her nature in this book following the drug treatment that she received in the first instalment. Her brother Rhoan features in this story as he helps Riley at the denouement at the end of the story when they uncover the evil behind a string of grisly deaths from the UK to Germany to Australia.

This book relied far more on plot and characterisation, particularly Riley's workaholic nature and her complete absorption in being a Guardian and how that plays out with her personal relationships, rather than sex; for me, this made it a much stronger read and made Riley a more sympathetic character. It ended on a cliffhanger in Riley's personal life (although the major plot lines were all completed) and made me look forward to the next book. Although part of a series all the relevant backstory was given in a smooth and concise way and so this book would be easy to understand for a first-time reader despite the complex supernatural world and the varied skills that the non-humans have. "Embraced by Darkness" is a great addition to the series and a book that will probably win this author new readers.

Originally published for Curled Up With A Good Book, [...]. © Helen Hancox 2007

wonderful author.......2007-08-23

the author has a way of writing where to me i seem to be the person or with her. her books are full of comedy danger sex and mystery

Riley Jensen Series.......2007-08-19

This series is wonderful. I loved each and every book int he series. This one was just as hard to put done as the last. I am eagerly awaiting the rest of the series to be published.

Midnighters #2: Touching Darkness (rpkg) (Midnighters)

Average customer rating:

Great
Another Westerfeld winner, and not just for YA'a
Good book though I personally I like first one better.
Great Second Book In Series
A Real Ride

Midnighters #2: Touching Darkness (rpkg) (Midnighters)
Scott Westerfeld
Manufacturer: Eos
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Action & Adventure | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Adventure & Thrillers | Literature & Fiction | Teens | Subjects | Books

Horror | Teens | Subjects | Books

Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books

Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Children's Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Teen Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Horror | Teens | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0060519568
Release Date: 2006-02-28

Book Description

Bixby, Oklahoma, is full of secrets.
some come out at midnight.
some should stay hidden.

As the Midnighters search for the truth about the secret hour, they uncover terrifying mysteries woven into the very fabric of Bixby's history, and a conspiracy that touches the world of daylight.

This time Jessica Day is not the only Midnighter in mortal danger, and if the group can't find a way to come together, they could lose one of their own . . . forever.

Customer Reviews:

Great.......2007-10-15

Great book. An excellent sequal to the first. The characters have evolved and grown up so much. Its an excellent book for everyone.

Another Westerfeld winner, and not just for YA'a.......2007-10-13

Review of Midnighters trilogy:

Yet another YA science-fantasy winner from Westerfeld, with appeal well beyond the target audience, if your reviewer is a fair guide.

"Jessica Day moves into the small town of Bixby from Chicago, and although she hits it off with the "in" crowd, she also falls in with a bunch of weirdos who don't like the daylight, wear black a lot and are covered in metal jewelry. In the middle of the night she wakes up and discovers the world asleep with the exception of her weirdo chums and weird black slithery things..." -- from the best online review I saw of vol. 1; google farah-sf[dot]blogspot[dot]com

I know, it sounds sort of hokey and comic-booky, but actually works pretty well. The kids are fun, the action is fast & furious, and the pages turn most satisfactorily. There's even a nice touch of moral ambiguity in the wrapup volume.

Note that this is really a single novel, split into thirds by the publisher. You'll know by the end of #1 if you want to continue. I'm betting you will. But do start with #1! Midnighters #1: The Secret Hour

The story is set in Bixby, Oklahoma, now a suburb of Tulsa. I grew up about an hour away, and the problem with Westerfeld's Bixby is, it doesn't much resemble the real eastern Oklahoma. Westerfeld has numerous references to desert and salt flats, but this part of Oklahoma is pretty well-watered -- the native vegetation is a scrub-oak & pine forest. This won't affect your enjoyment of the story, really, but I have no idea why Westerfeld used a setting that would fit better in west Texas or New Mexico. Curious, seemingly pointless, and annoying.

Happy reading--
Peter D. Tillman

Good book though I personally I like first one better........2007-07-23

This is a very good book...a great second book in the series. I personally enjoyed the first one better, but the Midnighters series will hold you interest and entertain you from start to finish. I have only read this book once, but am planning on reading it again soon. I have read the first one about 8 times...Great read for people who have read the first one. If you haven't read the first one I recommend go read it before reading the second. But overall, a great book!

Great Second Book In Series.......2007-04-13

The book Touching Darkness, is the second book in the Midnighters series. In Bixby, Oklahoma, five teenagers in High School have an extra hour, when time freezes. There are also darklings (bad animals that only live an hour a day), that are trying to get Rex, (one of the Midnighters) because they need someone new to communicate with their human allies.

(SPOILER) My favorite part in this book is the part when they are fighting the darklings and slithers, near the end of the book. Jessica (the main character) goes out with another midnighter and try to save Rex. Rex has changed into a darkling, and is one of them now. Jessica saves him by killing all the darklings with her powerful beam of light. She then turns her flashlight on Rex to get the darkling skin off of him. This is my favorite part because it has a lot of action and suspense.

I recommend this book to everyone. It is filled with action, suspense, and even mystery about the extra hour at midnight. Touching Darkness makes me think about new things and extends my imagination because the book is so creative. I also recommend this book because it kept me reading, it's a real page turner. I like the book because it shows how someone can be torn away from a regular life, to the life full of secrets, and of trying to survive from things, almost no one else knows about. That is why I recommend this book; I also think you should read the first book of the series before this one, to help understand it.

A Real Ride.......2007-03-30

In the town of Bixby, anyone born at midnight has access to a secret hour. The hour is also inhabited by dark creatures that prey on man. The first volume ended as one young midnighter discovers her midnighter power as a Lightbringer. It is now two weeks later. Now that the Midnighters have a powerful new weapon to use against the darklings trouble arises from a completely different direction.

Midnighter talents can be used for more than just the battle against the darklings. They can also be used to detect patterns in the Blue Time. These patterns detect a null spot in town that hides a secret. A secret that has worked very hard to remain hidden and something inside the null area is toying with the group's Mindcaster. Discovering what is inside the null area also reveals more about the town of Bixby and its history with the Secret Hour. Now the Midnighters learn their true destinies and why they seem to be the only Midnighters.

This volume is rich in revelation. National trends had a different affect in Bixby due to its unique situation. This use of history meshed with the series framework works very well. The revelations go a long way to solidifying the series premises. I will not reveal any of these revelations as that would take away a lot of the fun of this volume. If you liked the first book and want more then will find plenty of it in this second volume of the trilogy. Check it out.

Dark Defender (Paladins of Darkness, Book 2)

Average customer rating:

It must be hard to write a second book
better than the first
Not as good as I thought it would be.
Better!
A fun read!

Dark Defender (Paladins of Darkness, Book 2)
Alexis Morgan
Manufacturer: Pocket Star
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Fantasy, Futuristic & Ghost | Romance | Subjects | Books

General | Romance | Subjects | Books

General | Contemporary | Romance | Subjects | Books

Gothic | Romance | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Romance Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Fantasy, Futuristic & Ghost | Romance | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

General | Romance | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 1416520376

Book Description

Alexis Morgan continues her dazzling paranormal series about larger-than-life warriors and the women they love....

As a Paladin warrior, Blake Trahern fights and dies again and again to keep mankind safe from the Others. Sensing his humanity slipping away with each battle, he retreats from the world...until the one person who still has a claim on his soul needs his help. It's been twelve years since Blake vanished from Brenna Nichols's life, years that have turned her from a love-struck teen into a headstrong, sensual woman. He'll fearlessly give his life to protect her -- yet he dare not risk his heart.

Brenna is stunned by Blake's reappearance, and by a shocking discovery about her father. Everything she has ever believed is thrown into question -- everything except the desire that Blake still ignites. But as they search together for a traitor among the Paladins, danger looms: the next battle could tip Blake into madness, destroying his life, his soul...and the only woman he has ever loved.

Customer Reviews:

It must be hard to write a second book.......2007-05-06

Because so many sophomore attempts are awful. (Chance book is an example). The first book was very entertaining with a new concept. This book went for the pity me angle -the I'm so tortured with pain, guilt whatever. I tried to like the characters, but the entire conspiracy angle overwhelmed the story. Also are the others friend's or foes. Make up your mind please. Over all I would borrow but not buy full price.

better than the first.......2007-04-26

I didn't care the first one in this series because there was too many loose ends. I thought this one was better in that it at least addressed the fact that there was loose ends and that even the Paladins didn't understand what was happening, but they were trying to find out.

I also had the impression that answers were on their way. The characters were interesting and worked well together. I'm looking forward to the next one.

Not as good as I thought it would be........2007-04-10

I enjoyed the first in the series, Dark Protector, and was looking forward to Blake's story. Blake is a Paladin and watches the border between our world and the Others. Paladin's are born warriors and often die in the line of duty, but are continuously brought back by their Handlers. Once a Paladin has been brought back one time too many, he becomes an Other and must be put down. In the First book, Blake was very close to becoming an Other. I had the feeling he was on the edge of losing his humanity. I did not get that feeling in this book, even though it kept saying he was close to having to be killed. I just expected more of his character and felt somewhat dissapointed. I didn't care too much for Brenna either. Dr. Laurel Young and Devin Blane's characters were more fleshed out in the first book. I still enjoyed the story but I wouldn't give it 5 stars. It kept my interest for the most part, but just didn't carry me away.

Better!.......2007-02-18

I read the first of the series and it took me a while to wrap my head around the storyline which was very unique. I wasn't sure I was going to care for a hero who died at the end--or I thought I would care to much and then be angry---I was so wrong on it all. I would suggest this book and the first to any who are considering it--just don't go into it with any prepreceived notions--you will be pleasantly surprised either way, but after getting that first book read--this second ones was fantastic because I knew the Paladian universe.

A fun read!.......2007-01-07

What an imaginative story line Ms. Morgan has created! She grabs your attention and then you hang on for the great ride to the end. The barrier divides good and evil, or does it? Can't wait for the 3rd book!

Youth; Heart of Darkness; The End of the Tether (Penguin Classics)

Average customer rating:

Oh, for the passion of life!
"To make you hear, to make you feel- and above all, to make you see"
Good stuff
Three of the finest short stories ever written

Youth; Heart of Darkness; The End of the Tether (Penguin Classics)
Joseph Conrad , and John Lyon
Manufacturer: Penguin Classics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Classics | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

General | Short Stories | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

German | Classics | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Teen Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0140185135

Customer Reviews:

Oh, for the passion of life!.......2007-05-09

Make sure you read the short story "Youth," as well as the "Heart of Darkness." Both are super, and youth is worth it for the following lines alone:

"And there was somewhere in me that thought: By jove! This is the deuce of an adventure--something you read about; and it is my first voyage as second mate--and I am only twenty--and here I am lasting it out as well as any of these men, and keeping my chaps up to the mark. I was pleased. I would not have given up the experience for worlds. I had moments of exultation. Whenever the old dismantled craft pitched heavily with her counter high in the air, she seemed to me to throw up, like an appeal, like a defiance, like a cry to the clouds without mercy, the words written on her stern: "Judea, London. Do or Die."

O youth! The strength of it, the faith of it, the imagination of it! To me she was not an old rattle-trap caring about eh world a lot of coal for a freight--to me she was the endeavour, the test, the trail of life. I think of her with pleasures, with affection, with great--as you would think of someone dead you have loved. I shall never forget her...pass the bottle."

"To make you hear, to make you feel- and above all, to make you see" .......2005-10-31

Conrad is the master tale- teller of English Literature. In this volume three stories, from three Ages of Life are included. The first 'Youth'is about a maiden vogage to sea, and the last "The End of the Tether" about an old man in his blindness. The story however which has been most written and thought about, and is considered one of Conrad's masterpieces is " Heart of Darkness".
It begins as a meditative reflection, a telling on the banks of the Thames to his friends by the veteran seaman Marlowe of a tale of exploration and disaster. He tells of a voyage into the heart of Africa in search of an enlightened European adventurer and merchant Kurtz . Kurtz has dealt in the deepest part of the jungle in trading in ivory. But what Marlowe comes to discover and see is someone who has seen into ' the heart of darkness' and dies crying out ,"The Horror, the Horror". Marlowe returns to Europe and civilization and tells Kurtz's fiancee that Kurtz's last words were her name.
But the tale is more than the story or the plot. With Conrad the meaning of the tale is the creation of the atmosphere and the meditation on the voyage throughout .It is in a kind too of bringing us into another whole mode of being in thinking about our lives.
" The heart of darkness" to the uncivilized African reality and it refers to the deepest recesses of the human soul, a soul which crosses through and transcends continents.As Conrad's great Literature does.

Good stuff.......2002-12-24

The only thing missing is "the nigger of the Narcisscus", but you can't have everything. As complex as "the heart of Darkness" is, you may be better served by starting this book with "The end of the Tether", it is great in its apparent simplicity, yet it has its own complexity.

Three of the finest short stories ever written.......2002-11-17

I first read "Youth" in my own youth, over 25 years ago. It has haunted me ever since. That it is difficult to describe why is, I believe, more a testament to Conrad's subtle skills than to my own undoubted incompetance as an expositor. On one level, "Youth" is little more than a tale of a ill-fated sea voyage, but its poignancy is unmatched by any work of short fiction I've ever come across. Good or bad, pleasant or horrific, our youth is what we all miss. The inclusion of this great novella and the magically exotic "End of the Tether" ought to be more than justification enough to buy this book--even if it didn't also include the justly famous, if sometimes obscure, "Heart of Darkness". No one should think he or she is familiar with Joseph Conrad who has not read all of these three wonderful tales. (If you can find a collection that also includes "The Nigger of Narcissus," even better.)

Average customer rating:

A real page turner
Terrible
grippando grips
Didn't want to put it down
Great Beginning but that ending ......

Under Cover of Darkness
James Grippando
Manufacturer: Avon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

Action & Adventure | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

General | Thrillers | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

Suspense | Thrillers | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

General | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Horror Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

General | Mystery & Thrillers | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0061097470
Release Date: 2002-10-01

Book Description

The youngest lawyer ever to grab the helm of Seattle's most prominent law firm, Gus Wheatley has found success–as well at money, power, and prestige. He thinks nothing can interfere with his meteoric rise to the top. Until his wife, Beth, vanishes.

Beth's disappearance coincides with a series of brutal murders the FBI dubs the "bookend killings." They think Beth isthe killer's latest victim... or his willing accomplice. But Gus knows his wife would never ally herself with a cold–blooded killer. The further he searches, however, the more he discovers that Beth isn't the woman he thought he knew.

Beth may be alive. She may or may not be innocent. She may have come up against evil far more reaching than a serial killer. And for Gus and his family, that evil is much too close to home.

Customer Reviews:

A real page turner.......2007-06-12

This was my introduction to this author's work and it sure looks like he has a lot of talent for writing compelling suspense.

Gus Wheatly's wife has disappeared. At first the FBI believe that he may have done something to her. Then they start to think she may have fallen victim to a serial killer whose pattern is known as "book-ends." As Gus begins the search for his wife he discovers that he knows absolutely nothing about her. This is due to being a workaholic, coming home very late seven days a week and going out of town on long business trips.

To make Gus's problems worse he is suddenly kicked out of his law firm by his business partner who has virtually ruined his reputation in the firm and Gus is forced to take care of his six-year old daughter, who treats him like a stranger and like someone who may have had something to do with her mother's disappearance.

Trying to help Gus is an FBI agent named Andie. Andie is not sure whether Gus's wife was simply abducted or may be actually involved in the serial killings that are taking place.

The book moves along at a very rapid pace and Andie and Gus are very likeable characters. We really feel Gus's frustration as he tries to peel back the wall that stands between him and his young daughter.

The book also has a lot of tension. Lurking about is a mysterious black suited individual that loves to hang himself until almost dying and then freeing himself just before it is too late. He seems to love to do the same to his victims before they are ultimately killed.

My only problem with the book is that both Gus and Andie seem to do things towards the end of the book that had me shaking my head as to why. Otherwise this book would have earned a full five stars.

Terrible.......2007-03-28

This book was terrible. Let's start with the lead character Andie. If she wasn't whining about being mixed (Native American/White) she was being weak, silly and chasing after her boss, mind you she was getting married in the beginning of the book. The romance had no place in this book, it just took up extra space. You know a book is bad when the best character is the 6 year old. And the ending was ridiculous, I was angry I wasted by money.

grippando grips.......2007-02-14

Mr Grippando holds my attention and makes me wonder whats gonna happen next

Didn't want to put it down.......2006-11-15

I just finished reading "Under the Cover of Darkness". It was my introduction to a James Grippando novel. He has written a complicated yet easily understood novel about a busy attorney, Gus Whitley, who values his career over his family until his wife, Beth, disappears. He is left to take care of his six year old daughter and to make sense out of what could have happened to Beth. A serial killer is on the loose and we wait with baited breath to see if each murder will explain what happened to his wife. Grippando's prose style is crisp allowing the reader pick up the book and read as little or as much as time permits but always wanting to get back into the story. He uses interesting plot twists and turns to keep the pace moving. This book lends itself well to a reader with a busy schedule.

Great Beginning but that ending .............2006-09-14

This book centers around, (yet another), serial killer on the loose in Washington state, the up and coming aggressive FBI agent assigned to the case and a high powered attorney whose wife goes missing during the killer's "spree". The first half of this book is excellent - suspense, humor (the book's introduction of the FBI agent is priceless), and empathy with the attorney as he comes to grip with his wife's disappearance,(suspicion, the press, police, ugly politics at his law firm), and dealing with his six year old daughter. I thought to myself this author has hit his stride. Unfortunately about mid-way events slow,... okay.... but then the conclusion .... Unsatisfying is an understatement and all the more disappointing after this book's start. This isn't a bad book - it just isn't the first one I'd pick up off the stack of "Books to read". The frustration to this reader was the excellent beginning paired with the less than so-so ending.

The Knock at the Door: A Journey Through the Darkness of the Armenian Genocide

Average customer rating:

Could a book be anymore timely? This one is
A Moving Story Beautifully Told ...
Every so often.....
Every adult, young and old should read..........
"Knock" deserves knockout kudos

The Knock at the Door: A Journey Through the Darkness of the Armenian Genocide
Margaret Ajemian Ahnert
Manufacturer: Beaufort Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

General | Historical | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Women | Specific Groups | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

General | Europe | History | Subjects | Books

Armenia | Asia | History | Subjects | Books

Look Inside History Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0825305128

Book Description

In this riveting book, first-time author Margaret Ajemian Ahnert relates her mother's terrifying experiences as a young woman during the oft-overlooked Armenian genocide in Turkey at the beginning of the twentieth century. At age 15, Ahnert's mother was separated from her foster family during a forced march away from her birth town of Amasia. She narrowly avoided kidnapping, faced unspeakable horrors at the hands of soldiers, and was forcibly married to an abusive Turkish wagon-driver. Throughout her ordeal, she had faith and reminded herself that "this, too, will pass," a mantra which enabled her to survive these nightmarish experiences. Eventually, she escaped captivity and was able to make her way to America.

Ahnert's compelling account of her mother's suffering is framed by an intimate portrait of her relationship with her 98-year old mother. The reader sits with Ahnert in the Armenian Home as she cares for her mother and listens to the sometimes awful, occasionally funny, and always inspiring stories of her mother's turbulent life during a terrible period in human history.

Customer Reviews:

Could a book be anymore timely? This one is.......2007-10-11

I have recently read for the second time Margret Ahnert's fascinating story of her mother's horrific ordeal as a victim of the Armenian genocide. I remain amazed at her ability to suffer, forgive and move her life forward.
.
Just today I heard that our Congress has voted to declare this historical event an ethnic genocide. The evidence of the slaughter of millions has been known by the world -- but until this vote, never officially declared. For the first time in the past several years, I feel our government has done something to be proud of.
If Margret Ahnert's deceased mother could only share this day-- one that all Armenian's must have despartely waited for, she surely would give her a big thank you for having the courage and tenacity to tell her story.
It may have been this book that pushed the envelope
which finally got a consensus together to speak the truth. As much as we know of the truth.
If only the proud Turkey of today would face the historic facts squarely--perhaps everyone afftected could begin the healing process.
Kathleen Landis
New York New York

A Moving Story Beautifully Told ..........2007-10-01

"The Knock at the Door," is a moving story beautifully told, by a devoted daughter who wanted to record her mother's unbelievable suvival.
Beverlee Trepp,
Stuart Florida

Every so often............2007-09-30

There are plenty of books which grapple with the ills of humanity. But what renders this book so touching and rare, is the time it took Margaret Ahnert to gather the story, organize the tales of an old woman - her adored mother, and allow it to warm and educate the reader. Time, not in the hours of completing the book-writing task, but instead the decades of devotion listening to her mother speak her story. I could imagine the New York afternoons with Ester telling Margaret about her youth - interspersed with the daily life of the grandchildren, the house, business, etc. What tedious joy it must have been for Margaret; taking notes, luring out the evil, yet delighting in those stories which build a life. What a strong old gal Ester was. And what a great daughter is Margaret to know it and have the insight to write such a personal tale of family love and worldly politics. Bravo.

Every adult, young and old should read.................2007-09-10

A wonderfully written book about resilience and survival, about coming of age and ageing. It also deals with lose and moving forward and the importance of family. A throughly "good" read.

"Knock" deserves knockout kudos.......2007-07-24

In my view, this short book is must reading. With little specific knowledge of Armenia and Armenians, but curious about what really happened, I opened this book slightly fearing that it might be just more dry, tired history. How wrong! This is a beautifully expressed oriental tapestry of perspectives on life. The talented author skillfully weaves together both a moving journal about her visits to her aging mother (think "Tuesdays with Ester") and the shocking, vivid reality of what it takes for an entire people not just to survive but to prevail. Best book I've read in years.

Average customer rating:

Devoured It!
If you DON'T like Sad Endings--DON'T READ THIS!!!
John Marsden be my friend
Part of a great series
Best Book Series Ever

Darkness Be My Friend (Tomorrow)
John Marsden
Manufacturer: Scholastic Paperbacks
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Action & Adventure | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Adventure & Thrillers | Literature & Fiction | Teens | Subjects | Books

General | Literature & Fiction | Teens | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Children's Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Teen Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 043985802X

Amazon.com

There are only five of them left now. Ellie and her four friends, Lee, Homer, Kevin, and Fi, have reluctantly returned to New Zealand from Australia to lead more guerrilla attacks on the enemy (who invaded their country in the previous book, Tomorrow, When the War Began). The group has staged raids on their captive hometown Wirrawee from the wilderness sanctuary they call Hell, blowing up and burning enemy headquarters and bridges and supply depots, and killing with their bare hands when they must. By the end of the two sequels, The Dead of Night and A Killing Frost, they are strong and resourceful, but tired and soul-sick with the pervasive violence. Two of them have been killed, and one has killed himself in despair. When they were rescued and airlifted to New Zealand, they thought the nightmare was over. But now they have been sent back to Wirrawee to guide a party of adult raiders on a planned sabotage of a strategic airfield. Something goes wrong; the adults never come back from the raid, and Ellie and her friends are again left on their own to do what they can--and must--to survive.

Like John Marsden's other books, this story is immersed in darkness and dread. It's packed with almost unbearable suspense and breathtaking action, as the personalities and relationships of these decent country kids are eroded by the imperative for violence. Marsden fans will elbow each other aside for a copy of this one, and will look forward to the three new installments on the way. (Ages 12 and older) --Patty Campbell

Book Description

Five months into World War III, Ellie and her four remaining friends have barely escaped the Australian town of Wirrawee with their lives and their sanity intact. But as the next step becomes clear, they realize they must once again sacrifice their hard-won comfort and safety. A group of soldiers has recruited the kids to guide the way to the Wirrawee air base. What could possibly motivate Ellie and her friends to return? This risky sabotage mission may be their only hope of rescuing their families, too.

Customer Reviews:

Devoured It!.......2005-10-19

Huh? I don't understand some of the negative reviews. I've been reading this series in order and I think this book is as good as the rest. I would have read it in one sitting if I didn't have to get up to go to work the next day. I'm not a fast reader either, but I finished it in record time. There's plenty of action and lots of tension, so you won't be bored. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in this series.

If you DON'T like Sad Endings--DON'T READ THIS!!!.......2004-08-01

This book is OKAY, I mean, Book I and Book II are the BEST books in the Tomorrow Series.
Anyway, I thought this book was rather boring and it didn't have as near as much good stuff in it that the first three had. When, I finished this book, I was greatly dissapointed because I HATE books with sad endings. It just tears my heart away.
This is the last book I read in the series because it got SO boring when I got half way through the 5th book. And, I hate the way the series ends (I took a sneak peak in the last book and found out what happened--lol). So therefore, I advise you, if you DO NOT like books with sad endings, don't read this!!!

John Marsden be my friend.......2003-12-14

Although not as action-packed and satisfying as the previous books in the series, Darkness Be My Friend stands out as one of the best. It would be a mistake to say the book is slow, however-there are still several suspensful scenes of action. This book may let readers down by lacking a huge, explosive victory from our protagonists, but this serves to make the series even more realistic. Darkness Be My Friend also contains what is surely the saddest scene in the entire series. This is a must-read, of course, for anyone who enjoyed the previous books.

Part of a great series.......2003-08-17

This book is an essential part of a great series. From reviews the series can look really 'bad' with too much action, but once you get past the back cover and onto the reading, no one i know has been able to put it down - and that goes for the whole series. Once you have read the first book, everyone just wants to read them all. If you are reading the reviews after having read the first books, what are you doing? Just order the rest of the series and devour them. I have read all the books through at least 5 times in 2 years, all my friends have read them too. One bit of advice: buy the hardback version so that the spine doesn't bend so much from use that you can't read the titles! These are all great books, with 'realistic' storylines - because whp knows what would/could really happen? These books are so good i phoned my cousin in Oz to make sure it wasn't real. When you read any one of these, you feel like you're sitting on Ellie's shoulder, and that you are feeling and experiencing every feeling (physical and mental) with her. Everytime you read these books, the feelings will get stronger and harsher as you feel like you actually know the characters; if you haven't cried at least twice by the end of the series, what's wrong with you? Everyone should read these, and then think about how you would feel if someone invaded and occupied your home, destroyed your life and hurt you irreparably. War will never seem the same again, it may be necessary but it will always seem evil. We've just seen Iraq being invaded, in order to get rid of Sadaam right? Well when you watch the news and there are people in the background, imagine yourself as one of them. Bombs falling around your ears, people you can't understand shouting and waving guns at you, and expecting you to understand and change every thought and feeling you have been brought up to have. That's what happens to Ellie. Just think about it as real and then i dare you not to feel the pain with her.

Best Book Series Ever.......2002-02-11

I am an avid reader, but this book series is defaitnly the best I have ever read. I bought the first book once it came out, but had to put it down, because of required reading for school. Over teh summer, I started reading it again, and was down before the second day. I rushed out to buy Dead OF The Night.. And waited impatently until my bookstore could have The Killing Frost shipped in. I am now waiting for teh next inslatment, and am very impatient!

Out Of The Darkness: The Story of Mary Ellen Wilson

Average customer rating:

READ THIS BOOK!!!
Amazing
If you've read this book, share your thoughts with others!
A must read for all Human Service Workers
A must read for social workers

Out Of The Darkness: The Story of Mary Ellen Wilson
Eric A. Shelman , and Stephen, M.D. Lazoritz
Manufacturer: Dolphin Moon Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

General | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

Human Rights | Politics | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

Look Inside History Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0966940008

Amazon.com

Conventional child rearing in the wake of the Civil War could be aptly described as "spare the rod and spoil the child." Like slaves in the previous era, children were considered property, with no more rights than horses or dogs. With luck they were cared for and loved. Orphaned and raised in devastating poverty, young Mary Ellen Wilson was not so lucky. Out of the Darkness vividly details Mary Ellen's life as a captive in her Hell's Kitchen tenement. Left alone during the day to find her own playthings--a few strings and a pet spider named "Timmy"--the situation only became worse when her mother returned home to administer shockingly brutal daily beatings. More than a chronicle of one child's abuse, however, Out of the Darkness also documents her rescue--including the key role of the newly created American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. By drawing parallels between animal rights, Mary Ellen's case, and the end of slavery, Out of the Darkness illustrates how the end of the Civil War ushered in a profound shift in attitude--an acceptance that all living beings are capable of suffering and therefore deserve protection. This is a riveting read about a fascinating period. --Ginger Dzerk

Book Description

Based on a true story, this book recounts the life of Mary Ellen Wilson, the first abused child in America to be removed from her home. In 1874, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals took steps to save the child when no one else would. The landmark case changed the course of child protection in America.

Customer Reviews:

READ THIS BOOK!!!.......2007-09-20

This book is a book that anyone who is considering a career in any type of child services needs to read. I myself am going into social services and this book made me realize what I will be seeing on a daily basis. Mary Ellen was such a brave little girl and I applaud her for surviving her early life!

Amazing.......2006-05-13

The book Out Of The Darkness is an awesome book. It shows the hard time that a little girl named Mary Ellen had to go threw. She has such a hard life, but in the end everything work out. I recommend this book for everybody. This is an outstanding book, everybody should read it.

If you've read this book, share your thoughts with others!.......2006-05-03

I'm Eric Shelman, co-author of Out of the Darkness. I just wanted to ask that if you buy this book, come on back and write a review of it when you're done. I've never had anything but positive feedback about it, but others can use YOUR personal experience with it to better judge it prior to purchasing. I thank all of you who have read and commented on our book.

A must read for all Human Service Workers.......2005-11-05

The authors of this book have created a wonderful window of understanding how child abuse/neglect has evolved over the years. This book should be required reading for anyone interested in the human service field. Through the heart-felt story of Mary Ellen, we can see why there is such a strong need to protect children and continue to evolve for many more years. Thank you to Shelman & Lazoritz for telling such an important story.

A must read for social workers.......2005-06-27

Review of Out of the Darkness: The Story of Mary Ellen Wilson by Eric A. Shelman and Stephen Lazoritz, M.D. Dolphin Moon Publishing, 2003

I chose to review this book because it explains the job of a social worker in the early days of the profession. The book appealed to me as an author and advocate. Set in New York City immediately after the Civil War, this book offers a powerful story in a historical context. Using an original style that combines journalism with fiction, the writers completed a work of art that is based on a true story. The protagonist, Mary Ellen Wilson, was a real orphaned child who experienced devastating cruelty at the hands of the first woman to be tried and convicted of child abuse, Mary Connolly. The story climaxes when Etta Wheeler, a social worker; Henry Bergh, the founder of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals; and Elbridge Gerry, ASPCA attorney, come together to rescue Mary Ellen. It's nearly inconceivable that animals were awarded victims' rights before children.

Thomas Wilson was an immigrant from Ireland who fled the potato famine to shuck oysters at a New York City hotel. In 1861 he married Frances Connor, an English immigrant who he'd met while she was a laundress at the hotel. While he was on the front lines during the Civil War, she gave birth to their daughter, named Mary Ellen. The year the child was born was the same year that Tom Wilson died in battle, 1864.

Frances found it difficult to work and care for her child, so she sought the services of a woman named Martha Score. Childcare for the working poor in the tenements of New York City provided meager nutrition and crowded conditions with no sanitation. However, Miss Score took good care of the baby while Frances worked long hours at the hotel. Travel through the tenements was treacherous at night, so Frances could not visit her child as often as she wished. After her husband died during battle, Fanny turned to alcohol for solace, leading to the loss of her job. Eventually, Fanny died in an "inebriate's asylum." When the war ended, working women returned to housekeeping as their husbands went to work. This left Miss Score with no income, thereby having to abandon the then two-year old Mary Ellen to Blackwell Island almshouse. Mary Ellen was illegally adopted to the evil Mrs. Connolly, where she suffered for seven years.

Etta Wheeler worked for St. Luke's Mission; she cared for the "outdoor poor" and frail elderly in the slums of the city. When neighbors spoke about the cries of a child called Mary Ellen, Miss Wheeler used all available resources to rescue Mary Ellen. However, she was often told by pastors, police, and lawyers to not interfere in the family's business. Undaunted by the advice, Etta persisted in her rescue efforts, eventually aided by Henry Bergh of the ASPCA. In 1874, with police assist, Mary Ellen was carried out of the abusive home, covered with a horse blanket provided by the ASP