Book Description
Edgar award-winning author of the popular historical novels A Conspiracy of Paper and A Spectacle of Corruption, David Liss showcases his amazing versatility with this brilliant new tale of contemporary suspense: a literary thriller set in Florida, where killing is a matter of conscience.
No one is more surprised than Lem Altick when it turns out he’s actually good at peddling encyclopedias door to door. He hates the predatory world of sales, but he needs the money to pay for college. Then things go horribly wrong. In a sweltering trailer in rural Florida, a couple whom Lem has spent hours pitching is shot dead before his eyes, and the unassuming young man is suddenly pulled into the dark world of conspiracy and murder. Not just murder: assassination– or so claims the killer, the mysterious and strangely charismatic Melford Kean, who has struck without remorse and with remarkable good cheer. But the self-styled ethical assassin hadn’t planned on a witness, and so he makes Lem a deal: Stay quiet and there will be no problems. Go to the police and take the fall.
Before Lem can decide, he is drawn against his will into the realm of the assassin, a post-Marxist intellectual with whom he forms an unlikely (and perhaps unwise) friendship. The ethical assassin could be a charming sociopath, eco-activist, or vigilante for social justice. To unravel the mystery and save himself, Lem must descend deep into a bizarre world he never knew existed, where a group of desperate–and genuinely deranged–schemers have hatched a plan that will very likely keep Lem from leaving town alive.
David Liss skillfully interweaves a gallery of eccentric characters with a multilayered plot characterized by its unpredictable twists and turns. The Ethical Assassin is a brilliant, darkly comic novel that will leave readers in suspense until the very last page.
From the Hardcover edition.
Customer Reviews:
A Gifted Writer; a Rare Read.......2007-09-09
David Liss has a sense for history. He has a taste for telling a terrific tale.
Sure, his latest novel recycles familiar conventions--drug dealers, missing money, an innocent hero mixed up with bad guys. But he delivers it with flair and style. Less cerebral than The Coffee Trader, the author still manages to entertain with this unique tale set in Florida during the summer of 1985.
The engaging story involves pig farming, door-to-door encyclopedia sales and crystal meth production. The characters are vivid. The action grabs the reader in the opening chapter and does not let up until the final page. In short, it is a hypnotic page-turner.
Liss is an author who should not be missed.
Another solid effort by Liss.......2007-08-26
In his first three novels (A Conspiracy of Paper, A Spectacle of Corruption and The Coffee Trader), David Liss told tales that took place in the England and Holland of centuries ago. In The Ethical Assassin, he has again written a historical mystery, but the time in question is much more recent: the 1980s. He has also departed Europe for rural Florida. This book proves an essential point: regardless of time or setting, Liss is a great writer.
The Ethical Assassin opens with Lem Atlick going door-to-door trying to sell encyclopedias to raise funds for college. He is about to complete a sale to a couple when they are both gunned down in their home by Melford Kean, the ethical assassin of the title. Melford has his reasons for killing the two, but he doesn't want to kill Lem; nonetheless, as insurance, he forces Lem to put his prints on the murder weapon.
Kean turns out to be one of the least of Lem's problems. There is also the fact that his bosses seem to be entangled in drug dealing, his two co-workers are vicious bullies and he has run afoul of a small-town police chief who is a truly loathsome fellow. Next to these folks - as well as the big boss who is a borderline pedophile (he never fully acts on his desires) - Kean seems like a relatively nice guy. Lem is forced into friendship with Kean as things get messier.
It is not difficult to see parallels between this book and the works of Carl Hiaasen, a point that doesn't escape many of the critical blurbs in the book. There is the Florida setting, the healthy dose of often-dark humor and the collection of off-beat characters. But Liss is not merely a Hiaasen knock-off, but a good author in his own right. And if you enjoy mystery novels with a bit of tongue-in-cheek (and an interesting message about animal rights), this should be well worth picking up.
a message wrapped in pulp fiction.......2007-07-07
I am a fan of David Liss and have read a number of his books. The Ethical Assassin is a departure from his other works but was a fun summer read that captured my interest and inspired some thought beyond the humor and the pulp fiction. A comparison with Carl Hiaasen is valid for this read.
An Amusing Tale.......2007-07-06
I've been a fan of Liss' novels for some time now. This book is certainly a departure from his work to date (all of which have been historical dramas), and some of the other reviewers correctly point out that this effort could well be mistaken for a Hiassen novel. Regardless, I enjoyed it. If you step back and forget about his earlier works, and evaluate this book as if you were reading a first time author, you can't help but conclude that it is an enjoyable read. Cheers to Liss for trying something different, I can certainly understand an author not wanting to get stereotyped as writing only one particular type of fiction.
Carl Hiassen should get royalties.......2007-05-19
Even Carl Hiassen books aren't original anymore, he's done the formula so many times. It's even less original coming from Liss. Add to that a moral that hits you over the head with story-stopping monologues, and you get a one-star review. Liss can do so much better.
Customer Reviews:
a good manual.......2001-10-30
The Anarch Cookbook is well written. It is indeed a manual for Anarch politics, warfare and their way of unlife. With descriptions on strategies for times of peace as well as melee and ranged combat tactics, weapon infos and bomb making. Notes on water cannons, bullet proof vests and shield parry. How to incite riots and revolts and how pacify them again. Useful for Anarchs and counter forces, like the Prince, the Primogen, the police and paramilitary units. It is a manual and for that it's good. On the other hand it lacks everything concerning their history and decision making processes within the movement, either in Camarillan cities, the Anarch Free State or in Sabbat strongholds.
The Cookbook only pictures the USA. The statement all, Anarchs left Europe in an Exodus-like migration, seems to be blown out of proportions. The movement began in the old world and nothing explains why all Anarchs should have left European cities only to live in the then Camarilla controlled American cities.
The book misses any comment on the unlifespan of Anarchs. I guess not all of them are neonates. Or is it their doom to die young - even in "peaceful" cities? Though many probably do, a number of Elders from the of the Inquisition might still exist.
To resume, it's not an encyclopaedia it's a cookbook.
Customer Reviews:
Going a different route.......2004-02-22
Tired of dealing with the support or restraint of your sire? Playing an Anarch can be fun and there is a lot of insight along with new things to consider when you lack a power base. Freedom and new responsibilities go hand in hand, being an Anarch means enjoying more freedom, but now fending for yourself. Where to sleep, where to feed, how to avoid those nasty Werewolves, avoiding the Scourge and Sheriff, avoiding the Sabbat recruiting "teams". This book is the guide to playing outside the traditions of the Camarilla and the Sabbat.
Book Description
M. J. Ryan teaches readers how to unlock the fullness of life through the expression of a grateful heart. In a series of brief, evocative essays, she inspires readers to discover a sense of gratitude in every aspect of life and offers them ways to focus on what they have, rather than on what they lack.
Customer Reviews:
So worried of what is to come of this Title.......2007-09-10
I have personal knowledge that a convicted Rapist, Attempted Murderer is going to be selling a DVD called.....Attitude to Gratitude. Very concerned this will be mixed up with you beautiful BOOKS!
A Grateful Reader.......2007-01-09
This is a "must read" for all of us to keep our lives balanced with the blessings we have today.
Not was I was hoping for..........2005-01-05
This book looked great from the reviews, so I decided to reserve it at the library to see if I thought it was worth purchasing. I was really excited when it was ready for pick up! I've just sat down with it tonight, however, and I'm really kind of disappointed... keep in mind this is coming from someone who has struggled for more than half her life with depression and anxiety - who has read the books and talked to professionals about problems and life and all that. This book didn't tell me anything I hadn't heard elsewhere.
To me this book seemed like a whole lot of "You should be grateful for simple things..." as opposed to, "This is how you can be grateful for simple things." I, personally, don't need someone telling me a list of things to be grateful for... I need someone to tell me *why* to be grateful for them... in a manner that is actually passionate and compelling. Why is life such a wonderful gift, why should I be moved by a rainbow, or a flower, etc.
The book is broken down into 5 "chapters", all filled with short 2 or 3 page stories. In one of the parts towards the beginning, the author talks about how worry, stress, etc., are bad for us... while gratitude and joy are good. It's not worded exactly like that, obviously, but that is the basic premise, and it's something I think just about everyone knows already. Not much is said about how you can go about getting rid of that worry and stress, though. Well, actually, there is... we can get rid of it by being grateful, but nothing seems to tell you how to do *that*.
In chapter 4, the stories start offering some suggestions. Most of them involve thinking of things you're thankful for... or thinking of ways you can improve your life to get things you want (not in a material but an emotional fashion). I didn't read anything about how to actually go about getting into the mindset of *being* thankful, or how to actually take the steps to *make* the improvements to your life.
Reading this book reminded me so much of the "Just do it" attitude I run into everywhere. In many cases, a great affirmation... but sometimes it isn't that easy. Be grateful... for life, simple things, etc. It reminds me of how people often tell you to "stop it" when they hear you are anxious or depressed. It isn't a light switch that everyone can flip on or off at will. The author DOES know this, and acknowledges that you have to work at gratitude... but I am not one of those people who is helped much by self reinforced positive affirmations on a day to day basis. That seems to be the method this book suggests.
Perhaps, if you're normally a happy person who has hit a rough spot... or if you're a person who can change easily... this book will help you. For anyone who has problems changing and needs really sound suggestions and things to practice that will do the job, I don't think I'd suggest this book. That's not to say this book is bad, I just find it average in the "help" it offers. If I judge it only among self-help books, I would say it is above average, because it's much easier and more fun to read.
A life changer.......2002-09-10
A lot has been said about having a "positive attitude," but this is one of the first books I have read that actually shows you how to accomplish this and experience life as a series of everyday miracles. I love this book and have given it as a gift several times. A must read.
A Lesson to learn in every short passage..........2002-03-19
I love this book more than any other that I own. The reason is that I read one passage every night before I go to sleep and it gives me so much to think about in improving my life. I limit myself to reading only one per night so that I can concentrate on the points of the particular essay of the night. I am almost to the end of the book and plan to begin rereading it and continuing to do so until I have the messages embedded in my brain and heart!!! This book is for everyone--I recommend you buy more than one copy and give them as gifts because I don't think you'll want to lend your copy out!!!
Customer Reviews:
A very good book.......2002-04-28
Are you a little tired of tradition? Have you ever wondered about some of the things in the bible that they don't teach in church? If so this is a very enlightening book. If you have any questions e-mail me. (and those ppl who call this a cult book are mistaken. I wonder how many of them have acually read the Dr.'s books??)
Average customer rating:
- A trilogy not to be missed!
- Great Read
|
Receive the Gift
Louise Marley
Manufacturer: Ace Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 Fantasy
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| Alternate History
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ASIN: 0441004865 |
Customer Reviews:
A trilogy not to be missed!.......1998-06-11
Readers just discovering this trilogy are lucky, because they can buy them all at one time--but beware, you may be up all night reading them. Sira's destiny is such an exciting one--a most satisfying conclusion to the three books.
Great Read.......1997-11-29
This book proves that Louise Marley is a true writer. From the opening paragraph to the last sentence, you are enthralled in the world of Nevya. The wonderful charcters and amazing setting are weaved together with expert craftmanship. If you are ever looking to read a great book, I would definitely read Receive the Gift.
Average customer rating:
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The Gift of Giving: To Receive Love, First You Must
Doreen Virtue
Manufacturer: Jormax Publishing, Incorporated
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 0964133229 |
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8 biblical ways to receive healing
Roxanne Brant
Manufacturer: Mustard Seed Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding
General
| Christian Living
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ASIN: B00072LMHQ |
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Baptism: Which One Did You Receive
Danny Andre' Dixon
Manufacturer: Star Bible
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Christian Living
| Christianity
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General
| Evangelism
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Sacraments
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ASIN: 1567940951 |
Customer Reviews:
Scholarly but accessible.......2004-09-07
I have always been concerned about the methodology that is often taken in discussing the issues surrounding the question of the necessity of water baptism in the salvation process. Many feel that the only approach that is valid is to take the vast majority of passages stating that faith is essential to salvation (and there are many), and to conclude from those passages that ONLY faith is essential to salvation. . . . I propose a different approach: Find all the passages on the subject of salvation (as also described in related terms like "forgiveness of sins" and "washing away of sins") then collate all the relevant biblical materials on that subject. If baptism is a part of the salvation process in such passages, then it should be included as being essential along with faith. The same holds true for confession of Jesus as Lord (Romans 10:9), and repentance (Acts 11:18; cf. Luke 13:3; Acts 3:19; 26:20). . . . What I have done in this book is to look at EVERY passage that conceivably has to do with water baptism and exegeted each text. Additionally, I have considered the various possibilities of interpretation where there are more than one present. . . . One thing that will disturb most who do see that water baptism is essential to salvation is that no passage that speaks of water baptism, when that passage is addressing those who have not already been baptized, suggests that one has to have a full understanding of the results of the baptism. I conclude, then, that a baptism is valid and biblical, even if a person is simply being baptized to be obedient to the Lord--apart from understanding theologically that it is "for" or "results in" the forgiveness of sins. . . . The book also has an important chapter on how one is to read narrative passages of Scripture that impact the question. If a "story" in the Scriptures leaves the impression that people present understood that "forgiveness of sins" follows baptism, does this narrative "story" require that everyone understand the same thing before a baptism is valid? I argue that narrative accounts of activity, "incidents," are not the same thing as "precedents." They may, in fact, be "accidents," serendipitous as to what the truth is, but ineffective entirely as to whether individuals have to have a perfect understanding of what those present in the story understood incidentally. . . . The book begins with a very cogent illustration of a young man whom I knew who was approached in a manner to trick him into rejecting his baptism done to be obedient to the Lord, but who was able to defend what he had done as an valid obedient act done in faith. . . . Anyone reading the book will get an education in how to read scripture generally, as well as a specific analysis of principles of interpretation as they apply to the subject of water baptism.
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Book of the Year: The Most Treasured, Valued Gift Anyone Could Ever Give or Receive
Sandy S. Taylor
Manufacturer: Ivy House Pub Group
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Binding: Stationery
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Everyone Can Receive the Gift -PR
Manufacturer: B&H Publishing Group
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: 1586402714
Release Date: 2010-01-01 |
Book Description
In the Modern Classics series, Australia's bestselling food writer Donna Hay takes the food from the past we love the most and makes it irresistibly new. Then she looks at what's the best of the new and turns it into a cooking classic.
In Modern Classics Book 2, Donna brings back trifle, lamingtons and vanilla slice, but gives them a great modern twist. Then she introduces biscotti, muffins and sugar grilled fruit, the new breed of sweet treat.
Modern Classics Books 1 and 2 are set to become the commonsense cookbooks of a new generation and essential for everyone, no matter their age or cooking expertise. More practical inspiration from Donna Hay.
Customer Reviews:
Delicious ;-().......2006-09-03
If you want to impress people with delicious treats that look complex yet are easy to make, this book is for you. Donna Hay's books are full of great ideas that are broken up into easy to make items that taste so good. As the title suggests, this book focuses on all the good stuff; desserts, cookies and cakes etc.
My favourite recipes (and the ones that I've made successfully so far) in here are Melting Moments, Triple Chocolate Semifreddo, Moist Chocolate Cake and the Simple Lemon Cake. Everything turned out OK for me (which is rare) and I credit that to her easy to follow instruction (the motivating pictures) and all the helpful hints. In the back of the book there is a Glossary, Before You Start, A Perfect Finish - all mini chapters to give you extra information and helpful tips. She is on a par to Rachael Ray. Both make great ideas and help you discover that we all can be good cooks. I really enjoy this book and hope you get to try some of the great recipes in here too because each one is easy and incredibly good.
Donna Hay Rocks!!!.......2005-03-22
All of her cookbooks are incredible, and the magazine as well. What is great is that the ingredient lists are short and there is a picture illustrating every recipe. The thing to be careful of, however, is that an Australian Tbs. is not the same as an American one (It is about 1 TBS + 1 tsp.). Also, some of the fruits aren't readily available here (very few) but I'm sure if you are creative you can make a substitution! PS to the reviewer who can't find the magazine...I live in a medium sized town and my local Barnes and Noble carries it regularly...a few months behind, but better than nothing!! And I think you can order a subscription through amazon.com or isubscribe.au.
Betcha can't make just one!.......2005-03-08
This book has more awesome recipes than you can imagine. They say you only really use about 10% of each cookbook on average and this one is going to make up for all the others. You will be taking goodies everywhere you go! This book has a lot of very simple, but fabulous desserts that you won't believe how easy they are to make. If you love desserts and you love to impress people you should get this book that is loaded with great recipes:)
Best Aussie (or ANY) Dessert Recipe Book! .......2005-03-05
I am American, but having lived in Sydney for over six years & married an Australian, it was such bliss to have been given this book as a 'bon voyage' gift! I can now make Anzac biscuits, caramel slice & pavlova with confidence. It's great too that the measurements have been 'converted' to American standards.
In any case, it is the one book that I always reference when having to make any type of dessert. I love the photography, the instructions & suggestions at the bottom of the recipes (ie. to make a cake lemon instead of vanilla, etc.). I'm also a big Donna Hay fan too -- shame the magazine isn't available in the US.
Better than Martha!.......2004-04-14
I purchased this book because of the simple and delicious looking photos, and for the authentic British/Aussie recipes that I have grown up with. I researched Donna Hay and have found her to be as interesting and creative as our own Ms. Stewart, but find Ms. Hay's approach more subtle and simple. Thank you Donna Hay! I wish your magazine was available in the U.S. One day eh?
This makes a great coffee table book if you're not into baking and cooking. Or give as a gift to your chef wanna be friends.
Books:
- The Falling Boy: A Novel
- The Final Detail
- The Folding Star
- The Forgotten Man (Elvis Cole Novels)
- The Full Cupboard of Life (No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Book 5)
- The Hague Conference Guides: Guide to Good Practice Under the Hague Convention of 25 October 1980 on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction
- The Harry Bosch Novels Volume 2: The Last Coyote, Trunk Music, Angels Flight
- The Kalahari Typing School for Men (No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, Book 4)
- The Little Book of He and She
- The Mini Love Voodoo Kit (Miniature Editions Pocket Pack)
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