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Review Date: 4/6/2010
This is the second book in a trilogy, following "Off Armageddon Reef" and before "By Heresies Distressed." It took me a LONG time to read this book--over a month--and that has to do with Weber's glacial pace. This installment discusses everyone's point of view in the developing war between the island nation of Charis and the Mother Church. Unfortunately, the Mother Church is led by the Gang of Four (i.e., the Bad Guys) who use their position of power to equate their will with the will of God Himself. Merlin, a cybernetic avatar of a centuries-dead young woman, knows better and wants to help Charis in stopping the Gang and the Knights of the Temple Lands using forgotten and forbidden technologies.
Honestly, I love David Weber's imagination and military sci-fi storylines, but this book was a trudge. It is very similar, in fact, to the early Honor Harrington novels ("On Basilisk Station", etc.) in that there is way too much exposition and unnecessary detail. Some very interesting plot points happen in this book (I won't spoil them) and the action sequences feel genuinely warlike--but it takes FOREVER to get there. . . . But, yeah, I'll go back and read the concluding novel eventually.
Honestly, I love David Weber's imagination and military sci-fi storylines, but this book was a trudge. It is very similar, in fact, to the early Honor Harrington novels ("On Basilisk Station", etc.) in that there is way too much exposition and unnecessary detail. Some very interesting plot points happen in this book (I won't spoil them) and the action sequences feel genuinely warlike--but it takes FOREVER to get there. . . . But, yeah, I'll go back and read the concluding novel eventually.
Review Date: 1/5/2020
Shakespeare is filthy--like, group of teenage boys filthy. And the girls are just as bad. I ordered this book for my boyfriend, who had studied Shakespeare (and was aware of the nature of these puns) but I couldn't resist reading it myself first! There are many splendid examples of interpreted passages--I only wish there were more. Enjoyable read!
Review Date: 12/25/2008
Helpful Score: 1
A classic! I was hooked on this series (this is the first in the Foundation series) as well as the Robot series. Yes, it's a bit dated for us modern readers, but I just love Asimov's writing style: the creativity, the character development, the politics. One of the best!
Review Date: 1/12/2010
Helpful Score: 1
I'll admit it--it took me weeks to read this book. For me it was slow to start, and this is really not my favorite series. . . but I stuck with it, and I'm glad! First of all, if you've made it this far (like me) you pretty much HAVE to keep reading. Second of all, although I really respect Robert Jordan's ideas and the mythology he created in the Wheel of Time, but I greatly prefer the writing style of Brandon Sanderson. As you go along, you may notice that the exposition is less plodding, and the characters less cartoonish and idiosyncratic than Jordan typically portrayed them. I mean really--does Nynaeve have any mannerisms other than yanking her braid? Enough. Kudos to Sanderson.
"The Gathering Storm", 700+ page book is the first THIRD of the final volume of the WoT called "A Memory of Light." In it, Egwene is stoically enduring her continued punishment by the White Tower, maintaining her assertion of being the true Amyrlin, and steadily gaining support against Elaida. We also spend a bit of time with Aviendha and her frustrating attempt to earn her place among the Wise Ones. But most of the story revolves around Rand and his rather depressing view that Tarmon Guidon is coming soon, as he prepares to fight the final battle and die in the process. He attempts to unify all the nations, and ally with the Seanchan armies (we see a bit of Tuon) to provide a united front against the Dark Lord. He finds a new level of power--and a deep coldness within himself along with a mistrust of everyone as his mental stability deteriorates. Gawyn, Perrin, and Mat have brief, almost cameo, appearances. Sanderson does well in "reminding" you who everyone is, so rereading the preceding eleven books is not necessary! Dig in and hold on for the long-anticipated conclusion.
"The Gathering Storm", 700+ page book is the first THIRD of the final volume of the WoT called "A Memory of Light." In it, Egwene is stoically enduring her continued punishment by the White Tower, maintaining her assertion of being the true Amyrlin, and steadily gaining support against Elaida. We also spend a bit of time with Aviendha and her frustrating attempt to earn her place among the Wise Ones. But most of the story revolves around Rand and his rather depressing view that Tarmon Guidon is coming soon, as he prepares to fight the final battle and die in the process. He attempts to unify all the nations, and ally with the Seanchan armies (we see a bit of Tuon) to provide a united front against the Dark Lord. He finds a new level of power--and a deep coldness within himself along with a mistrust of everyone as his mental stability deteriorates. Gawyn, Perrin, and Mat have brief, almost cameo, appearances. Sanderson does well in "reminding" you who everyone is, so rereading the preceding eleven books is not necessary! Dig in and hold on for the long-anticipated conclusion.
Review Date: 2/11/2010
Helpful Score: 1
Another pleasant, mildly erotic addition to Robin D. Owens Celta series. This one centers around Straif T'Blackthorn and Mitchella Clover. Straif is a cousin of the Hollys ("Heart Duel" and previous novels) whose entire family has been killed by a virus--he's been all over Celta obsessed with finding a cure to reestablish the Blackthorns. Mitchella is Danith D'Ash's best friend, a Commoner, and an interior designer of homes. She's been contracted to refurbish the dilapidated Blackthorn Residence for the GreatLord. Sparks fly between them, even though she's been left sterile from a childhood illness and has no hope for a lasting romance with a man obsessed with his lineage. Then someone challenges Straif's claim to the T'Blackthorn title, unless he can prove he's worthy of the title and the Residence in a hurry. Add Straif's self-important FamCat and Mitchella's teenage ward and the emotions run high.
This is the fourth book in the series, although each one stands alone: 1. Heart Mate (Danith and T'Ash), 2. Heart Thief (Ailim D'SilverFir and Ruis Elder), 3. Heart Duel (Lark and Holm Holly)
This is the fourth book in the series, although each one stands alone: 1. Heart Mate (Danith and T'Ash), 2. Heart Thief (Ailim D'SilverFir and Ruis Elder), 3. Heart Duel (Lark and Holm Holly)
Review Date: 10/17/2011
This is a very engaging book. There is a reveal fairly early on in the book, which I thought was a bit strange, but then the plot takes on some interesting twists, including a flashback into the Hypnotist's life, which sheds some light on the ongoing action.
I have to say, my one criticism is that the main characters are more well-drawn than the villains, but the writing is evocative, insightful and well-paced. It is being compared to the Stieg Larsson "Millenium Trilogy", and I don't think it's quite up to that level of sophistication, but I did thoroughly enjoy it.
The Amazon listing shows this as #1 in the Joona Linna series (Joona is the detective on the case, with the catchphrase "what did I tell you?" when he's proven right), so we can look forward to more from the Swedish writing duo known as Lars Kepler.
I have to say, my one criticism is that the main characters are more well-drawn than the villains, but the writing is evocative, insightful and well-paced. It is being compared to the Stieg Larsson "Millenium Trilogy", and I don't think it's quite up to that level of sophistication, but I did thoroughly enjoy it.
The Amazon listing shows this as #1 in the Joona Linna series (Joona is the detective on the case, with the catchphrase "what did I tell you?" when he's proven right), so we can look forward to more from the Swedish writing duo known as Lars Kepler.
The Language Of Yoga: Complete A to Y guide to Asana Names, Sanskrit Terms, and Chants
Author:
Book Type: Spiral-bound
1
Author:
Book Type: Spiral-bound
1
Review Date: 12/27/2008
This book and CD set is designed to help the yoga practitioner or teacher to learn how to properly pronounce the Sanskrit terms that are commonly used in yoga, such as asana names, the names of the eight limbs of yoga, animal names, classical texts, names of body parts, etc. If you are the type of person to whom such details are important, then you will really enjoy this work. Mr. Bachman says the term, pauses, then repeats it and pauses again, giving you the opportunity to practice saying the words aloud. It is a private yoga language tutorial, and it's a lot of fun!
There are two sections on the asanas: one according to astanga sequence, and an alphabetical listing. Each gives the sanskrit name (in sanskrit lettering--whatever that's called, as well as its transliteration), the english name of the asana, and a DRAWING of the pose in question--a word of caution if you are an "I can do that!" type of person.
No, it won't help you achieve Enlightenment, but you may get to impress your friends by saying "ardha buddha padma pascimottanasana." And you'll actually know what that means!
There are two sections on the asanas: one according to astanga sequence, and an alphabetical listing. Each gives the sanskrit name (in sanskrit lettering--whatever that's called, as well as its transliteration), the english name of the asana, and a DRAWING of the pose in question--a word of caution if you are an "I can do that!" type of person.
No, it won't help you achieve Enlightenment, but you may get to impress your friends by saying "ardha buddha padma pascimottanasana." And you'll actually know what that means!
Review Date: 1/2/2009
Helpful Score: 1
This book has a lot of excellent information about the food industry, the pharmaceutical industry, and how they have conspired to make money at the consumer's expense. It truly opened my eyes up to the politics of health, and how those we thought were invested in keeping us healthy have more selfish, economic reasons for the policies that are kept.
That being said (and take it with a grain of natural Celtic sea salt), if you can look past Trudeau's "whistleblower" agenda and militaristic stance, there is a ton of information and recommendations that will keep you healthy naturally. He gives 100 recommendations on "How never to get sick again." He supports his statements by citing research and organizations that support his statements. (I found a hideous number of spelling and typographical errors, so I am leery of his accuracy on many counts.)
A major drawback of the book is the promise of more information if you go to Trudeau's website for more information. . .by subscribing to his newsletter (for a fee). Don't do it, on general principle. So, a mixed review, but definitely worth a read.
That being said (and take it with a grain of natural Celtic sea salt), if you can look past Trudeau's "whistleblower" agenda and militaristic stance, there is a ton of information and recommendations that will keep you healthy naturally. He gives 100 recommendations on "How never to get sick again." He supports his statements by citing research and organizations that support his statements. (I found a hideous number of spelling and typographical errors, so I am leery of his accuracy on many counts.)
A major drawback of the book is the promise of more information if you go to Trudeau's website for more information. . .by subscribing to his newsletter (for a fee). Don't do it, on general principle. So, a mixed review, but definitely worth a read.
Review Date: 7/27/2010
Helpful Score: 1
A man inexplicably wakes up in a strange body, in a strange world, where he is a large athletic swordsman and people want to kill him. . . the premise seemed a bit familiar to me. Obvious culture-shock in comparison to his home world, but a boy-shaped demigod gives him all the esoteric knowledge of his craft in a moment--a lost opportunity for the character to have to figure things out for himself, I thought. He's told he's been chosen by the Goddess to do a mission, and the story begins.
I found that the writing was pretty good--descriptive prose and character development--but it took quite a while for any significant action to get going. In this world the People follow rigid hierarchical honor-bound behavior, loosely based on feudal Japan, and it felt a bit stifling. Will Willie/Shonsu shake things up? We can only hope so.
This book was highly recommended to me, and I admit I was disappointed. Not sure yet if I'll continue with this series.
I found that the writing was pretty good--descriptive prose and character development--but it took quite a while for any significant action to get going. In this world the People follow rigid hierarchical honor-bound behavior, loosely based on feudal Japan, and it felt a bit stifling. Will Willie/Shonsu shake things up? We can only hope so.
This book was highly recommended to me, and I admit I was disappointed. Not sure yet if I'll continue with this series.
Review Date: 12/25/2008
This is the first book of the "middle" trilogy, and introduces a whole new set of characters. Reminiscent of Patrick O'Brian's naval adventures, if they had included magic, the well-drawn characters and intriguing plots draw you in to a world as only Hobb can do.
I'll admit, I somewhat prefer the adventures of Fitz and the Fool (in the Assassin books and the Fool books) but there are few writers that make me as happy as Robin Hobb. And yes, you will want to read the whole series.
I'll admit, I somewhat prefer the adventures of Fitz and the Fool (in the Assassin books and the Fool books) but there are few writers that make me as happy as Robin Hobb. And yes, you will want to read the whole series.
Skinny Chicks Don't Eat Salads: Stop Starving, Start Eating and Losing
Author:
Book Type: Hardcover
6
Author:
Book Type: Hardcover
6
Review Date: 8/13/2009
Learn to control food cravings with this scientifically based program of weight loss and eating. The secret? A, B, C and D. That is, Amount (~400 calories), Balance (carbs, proteins and fats in a specific ratio), Clock (you MUST aim to eat every 4 hours) and Darnit, Get Your Lazy Butt on the Treadmill (self-explanatory). Plus, this book has some pretty good recipes that fit the bill.
Well, I'll admit, I was never hungry on this plan. But I didn't see miraculous weight loss either, and I always felt (and looked) "full." This is a great read--entertaining, packed with good information on the science of nutrition with clear explanations of how diets work, INCLUDING the pitfalls of the low-fat and no-carb diets--but I found it difficult to implement with my schedule. Worth a try, I still say, and a healthy solution for many who struggle to regulate their blood sugar and food cravings.
Well, I'll admit, I was never hungry on this plan. But I didn't see miraculous weight loss either, and I always felt (and looked) "full." This is a great read--entertaining, packed with good information on the science of nutrition with clear explanations of how diets work, INCLUDING the pitfalls of the low-fat and no-carb diets--but I found it difficult to implement with my schedule. Worth a try, I still say, and a healthy solution for many who struggle to regulate their blood sugar and food cravings.
Review Date: 8/10/2009
Helpful Score: 1
This is high-brow not too far in the future science fiction. I found the global and political themes and speculative science to be plausible, complex and engaging. The characters are similarly complex and ring true. Not as much action or humor as I would have liked--it's a dark, bleak future Wilson envisions--but it kept me going with unexpected plot turns, and interesting scifi. Fans of Orson Scott Card should enjoy this book as well.
Review Date: 8/4/2009
Helpful Score: 7
This is one of the best fantasy novels I have read in a long time. Its fast-paced action and gritty realism are secondary to the strong character development found in this first book in the trilogy. A young boy wants to get away from the poverty and crime in the streets by attaching himself to the most notorious wetboy, or hired assassin, in town. He gives up his name, his friends and his old life for a newer, darker one; but imperial politics and power shifts make it hard to know who to trust. Can an assassin ever really have any loyalties?
I loved everything about this book. The day I finished it I bought the next two in the series.
UPDATED to say that the rest of the series does not disappoint! I'll look for more from this author.
~Andrea
I loved everything about this book. The day I finished it I bought the next two in the series.
UPDATED to say that the rest of the series does not disappoint! I'll look for more from this author.
~Andrea
Review Date: 4/11/2011
Helpful Score: 1
In this book Alec and Seregil are traveling with Alec's "child of no woman" Sebrahn. Seregil and company return to the home that Seregil was banished from--their stay is all too brief. As they set out again, they're being pursued by people (Alec's mountain kin) whose purpose seems to be to capture those like Sebrahn. They, along with Micum, go on a mission to learn more about him, by finding the spell books used to create him.
I was disappointed with this book, first of all because not a lot happens for most of the book. Very little is learned about Sebrahn, and the romantic aspect is sorely lacking. There's a bit of magic, but nothing we haven't seen is the previous books. This is clearly an installment, and suffers from "second book in a trilogy" syndrome. It doesn't work as a standalone book at all. Still, one can hold out hope for the next book.
I was disappointed with this book, first of all because not a lot happens for most of the book. Very little is learned about Sebrahn, and the romantic aspect is sorely lacking. There's a bit of magic, but nothing we haven't seen is the previous books. This is clearly an installment, and suffers from "second book in a trilogy" syndrome. It doesn't work as a standalone book at all. Still, one can hold out hope for the next book.
Review Date: 12/27/2008
Helpful Score: 4
Hands down, one of the BEST books on yoga I have ever read. It is easily accessible for the beginner, breaking down even the basic poses into pieces for you to work on as you deepen into the pose. It is a perfect example of how yoga is not something that you do with your body, but rather, something that you do with your mind AND your body. He offers the concepts of working your edge, and remaining relaxed but extended.
There is an excellent section on meditation that can get you started or deepen this aspect of your practice. And, using his step-by-step instructions, I finally learned how to do the headstand (shirshasana) that the woman is doing on the cover, which I could never quite do before. Hint: it's all about finding your inner balance.
There is an excellent section on meditation that can get you started or deepen this aspect of your practice. And, using his step-by-step instructions, I finally learned how to do the headstand (shirshasana) that the woman is doing on the cover, which I could never quite do before. Hint: it's all about finding your inner balance.
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