Book Description
The Heart of the World recounts an extraordinary journey into one of the most inaccessible places on earth, and a pilgrimage to the heart of Tibetan Buddhism. Tibetan prophecies proclaim that the greatest of beyul, or mystical sanctuaries, lies at the eastern edge of the Himalayas, veiled by a colossal waterfall in the forbidding Tsangpo gorge. After years of investigation, world-class climber and Buddhist scholar Ian Baker and his National GeographicÂ-sponsored team made worldwide news by finding a magnificent 108-foot-high waterfall—the legendary grail of both Western explorers and Tibetan pilgrims.
Customer Reviews:
Good Lord, how did this book get so many glowing reviews.......2007-10-10
...coz when you strip out all the mystical nonsense about sages and esoteric texts and the like, it's just another bush bash into an admitteddly remote part of Tibet that's hard to travel through. But not worth the tedious descriptions of every rock and puddle and leech that the author encounters. There's nothing mystical about the Tsangpo Gorge, it's just remote, tough to get to, tough to travel through, sparsely inhabited and it has a few Tibetan monastries and villages. Whoop-de-doo. What's different to the rest of Tibet. I suspect this guy toked up a bit to much in Kathmandu. Which is admittedly a good place to do it...
Anyhow, if you like crystals, mystical navel gazing and Lopsang Rampa, this book is for you. If you're an outdoors kind of a person who enjoys travelling the wilder parts of the world in person rather than vicariously (as it appears all reviewers to date do...), then give this book a miss. The guys a poser making a big song and dance out of a fairly routine kind of a trek into a remote and admittedly hard to travel destination.
Haven't tried getting into the Tsangpo myself yet but it's on my list of places to go and having done quite a bit of trekking in the Himalaya's (and not on guided treks with porters I might add), I know something about the area and what its like. Mystical my a**. More like poor, dirty, leech-infested and physically demanding. And as for esoteric texts and sages in the mountains back of Kathmandu - I've trekked in back of Kathmandu for a couple of months - way way back of Kathmandu - and sages there ain't - poor mountain villages there are, yaks there are, illiterate villages there are in plenty, the sages may be there but it sounds to me more like this guys spinning a line....a good one mind you, but nevertheless....
Anyhow, you have been warned, If you like this kind of made-up mystical nonsense, you'll love this book. If you're into hard trekking, forget it. Although the trip down the Tsangpo is interesting if you can ignore the nonsense this guy spouts.
High Adventure and Impeccable Scholarship.......2007-09-30
Ian Baker, explorer and Buddhist scholar, narrates a sequence of incredible journeys to the Tsango Gorge in Tibet, the hidden and inaccessible Beyul Pemako.
The book can be read on many levels: as an engrossing adventure; the depiction of a man's passion, determination and endurance to achieve a goal in the face of incredible hardships; rarely described Tibetan customs; and the contrast between the spirituality of the Tibetans and the materialism of the Chinese who were penetrating the area at the same time as the author.
The thread that weaves the narrative together is the inner journey that unfolds as Baker traverses the sacred geography of the area as revealed by Buddhist texts, Tibetan lamas and the experiences of the author and his team. Backed by historical textural references and oral traditions, the author encounters the living, pulsing presence of this landscape in the form of the body of the dakini goddess Dorje Pagmo and her energy centers or chakras. He and his team successfully access the throat of the goddess, the hidden gorge with its long-sought waterfall.
After his arrival at the waterfall, his journey culminates in a visit to the sacred site of Gompe Ne on the banks of the Tsampo River where he enacted, as countless pilgrims before him have, a birth-death-resurrection using the sacred geography of the site.
I was constantly reminded of experiences in the Andes, especially Peru and the Andean Path, where the exchange of energies between man and the natural world and its sacred landscapes create spiritual alchemy and inner spiritual transformation.
The non-fiction and Eastern version of the da Vinci Code.......2007-07-02
A fantastic book for readers who are interested in learning about Tibetan Buddhism, the Tibetan culture and the Tibetan way of living, and readers who enjoy visiting and / or reading about exotic places on earth.
I picked up this book right after a trip to Tibet with my 4-year old son and truly enjoyed reading it. It took me deeper into the land that I had just visited by illuminating a bit about its history, its incredible natural beauty, its people's belief system and, most importantly, the interconnectedness of all. It is a well written book and Ian Baker has done an outstanding job of getting the reader very close to the actual experience.
Connecting with nature is certainly a powerful way to get connected in life and, once connected, the ultimate discoveries are often of the hidden secrets in one's soul.
If you are not convinced about reading this book, I highly recommend viewing the related photos on hollot's site (find the site by doing a search on "hollot + sardar" since amazon does not allow posting URL's).
Great reading >The Heart of the World: A Journey to Tibet's Lost Paradise.......2007-03-31
The Heart of the World: A Journey to Tibet's Lost Paradise takes you on a journey into canyons when no one as recorded before...breath taking..
stumbling among leeches, logs, bogs and Tibetan hermitages.......2007-03-27
The Tsangpo river cuts the eastern Himalayas to join Brahmaputra in the jungles of Assam. Intrepid British explorers have chartered most of its course during the glorious days of the Raj - leaving unexplored ~10 mile stretch of an inaccessible 'Tsangpo gorge'. Because the altitude difference between Tibet and India cannot be accounted for by the known flow of Tsangpo, the Brits hypothesized that this stretch of the river contains a large waterfall (or a series of them). This book describes several expeditions undertaken 1990-2000 by Baker and his colleague Hamid Sardar to solve this geogrpahical enigma.
Both adventurers speak Tibetan and have a working knowledge of Tibetan tantra, both completed silent meditation retreats in isolated caves and both practiced with 'tantric consorts', Tibetan & Indian women placed on special diets (consisting of rose leaves and gold) trained to help men achieve a 'union of male and female principles in order to recognize the ultimate Emptiness of all phenomena." While Baker tittilates the reader here, he never delivers real information.
Baler obtained a number of esoteric texts from lamas familiar with the Tsangpo territory - the texts detailed magical places throughout the gorge, incantation 'keys' necessary to 'open' those places, the nature of 'deities' residing in them and the value of their help to realization of the fact that 'nothing inherently exists on its own'. Heh. These texts, as well as subsequent Baker's narrative, reveal that the valley has ALWAYS been known to and lived in by Tibetans and local Monpa & Lopa tribes; it was never unknown, never had to be discovered and the rivalries driving American and Chinese expeditions to chart the river portrayed in the book seem pointless and even slightly comical. As well as poignant: expeditions (including Baker's own) were quite content leaving ailing and weak members behind to fend for themselves. Personally, I found the obsession with 'discovering' and 'exploring' a bit disconcerting. Why do we have to document, photograph, chart etc. every nook and cranny on this planet? Why can't we let it be? let local people be? What is the confusticated point?
Baker insists on describing every single leech-infested forest and swamp on their way, every impassable boulder, pass, rivulet, stone or log which, with 500 pages, merge into a general picture of hardship, malaise, effort, hunger, leaking tents and, above all, sheer survival luck. There were so many cases where the 'pilgrims' appeared to wander aimlessly, in the dark or fog, having lost their native guides only to find them at the end of the day, against all odds huddling around a fire, that one is forced to contemplate the possibility of divine guidance.
I would mention the fascinating account of 'poison cults' in local villages, and of small Tibetan monasteries and hermitages, scattered throughout the most inaccesible parts of the valley..., the gift of psychedelic mushrooms to a Tibetan hermit monk, and the touching relationship that developed between the Chinese liason officer, 'Mr. Gunn', and Occidental adventurers. Between the lines we can also read about havoc that local Monpas wreak upon local fauna (with mass-killing of rare animals such as the takin buffalo and tigers) and the much more serious Chinese depredation consisting of systematic mechanized exploitation of Tibetan natural resources and destruction of the environment (not to mention cutural genocide). Perhaps understandably, Baker wants to preserve his future access to Tibet.
The greatest weakness of the book is that we learn little about Baker's own practices and realizations. We learn a lot about leeches and orchids, but what was going on with the lama's daughter mentioned early in the book? what about the tantric consorts? what (if any) spiritual realizations and benefits did Baker and Sardar derive from obsessive backpacking along the Tsangpo...? We also don't learn who financed these expensive yearly expeditions. Why are there no photo's of the supposedly discovered waterfall? Why can't the waterfall be seen from sallites or googleEarth? The apparent fear of personal disclosure detracts from the value of the book.
Nevertheless, the book is well written and I enjoyed reading it. One cannot escape the notion that Baker and Sardar exemplify some of the best traits of 'man' - courage, resourcefulnes, commitment to spiritual growth and to having a good time.
Book Description
In this sequel to Championship Streetfighting, veteran boxer Ned Beaumont shows why boxing is the baddest martial art around for streetfighting. Here he moves beyond the basics and applies more advanced principles, techniques and training methods of the "sweet science."
Customer Reviews:
You may want to read "Championship Streetfighting" first.......2004-06-17
This is a good book, but for the basics you should read Beaumont's first book, "Championship Streetfighting". This book doesn't show you the basic punches, it has more advanced techniques. It only has drawings and not that many of them. Sometimes the drawings and their descriptions don't match, but you should understand what to do. I also would have liked to see elbows, low kicks, and knees in this book along with illustrations on how to use and defend against them. I spar with my cousin, boxing and trying some other stuff on him, and these two books really help. I learned how to punch properly from Beaumont's first book, and learned some "secret" punches and different stances from this one. I took a freestyle karate class and didn't learn proper punching, and I had some great Bruce Lee books. I always misunderstood the words "right cross", when the correct name was "straight right". In short, I learned not to loop my rights, how to hit harder, and even had a better understanding of Jeet Kune Do. These books have punching and streetfighting combined better than any of my other books, and I have a lot of books on practical fighting. I experimented with the different stances in this book and found that a crouch and semicrouch are my favorites and I can move just fine in a low crouch. I do some bobbing and weaving, but I get hit if I get too carried away and turn it into wasted movement. I can beat my cousin easily by being agressive and not holding back (Beaumont's teachings), but I don't want to hit him too hard and want to practice defense and countering skills also. As far as boxing goes, you should also buy "How to be an Ass-Whipping Boxer" by Champ Thomas. He uses an unorthodox stance he calls the Stonewall Defense, with the lead hand low, shielding the body perfectly, and the rear hand high protecting the head. He also shows some cool punches of his own along with the basics. If you're interested in boxing and self defense you should love these books, they're some of my favorites.
A Good Old Boy.......2002-10-07
This book is good fun, not least because the author is obviously an opinionated all-American wind bag. But I liked what he had to say, from my experience it is mostly true. Boxing because of the way it is taught and practiced makes it realistic and applicable to the street. There are other fighting forms, thai-boxing, brazilian JJ, valetudo that are also streetwise but I guess Ned's point is that boxing should be the starting point of anyone's street style and I'd have to agree. As one of the other reviews about Ned states, his attack on other styles is at times a little over the top, he sometimes comes across as the kind of guy who likes to beat on small guys and call orientals 'gooks' but all things considered, it's worth a read and there are some good anecdotes about the 'golden age' of bareknuckle boxing.
For Boxers Only, Unfortunately.......2002-02-10
I should start by saying that Mr. Beaumont is a very good writer...not all that common in many martial/combat/streetfighting books. He's fun to read. And what you see in the title is exactly what you get: anecdotes about great boxers and their fights, and how they might be applied to mostly bar brawls. He loves to diss regular martial artists, and even as a current karate/kickboxer with aikido, kung fu & tang soo do experience, I really don't mind. I, too, think most of today's martial artists would have a tough time in many street situations and particularly from boxers. His main point, that a well-trained boxer can probably beat most dudes on the street is probably true, in my opinion. Boxers, particularly pros, are trained, coached, in great condition, and used to full contact and fast, explosive combinations. Some folks think that a great wrestler can most likely win on the street; others hail the Brazilian jujitsu type styles. But Ned is taking everything here, as the title tells you, from a boxer's perspective, and within that task he does a great job.
Where the book disappointed me: almost no information on mixing in non-fist techniques such as elbows, knees, palm heel, knife hand, finger tips, low kicks, etc....nothing really dirty like using car antennas or ash can lids or eye gouges or biting (he does mention Tyson's "real meal")...very little on actual street situations -- one short chapter, as opposed to weight training, which takes up a significant percentage of the book...and most disappointing was the section on gang situations, in which he advises trying to intimidate the group, or failing that, beat up the biggest or loudest to scare the rest. That don't play down here on Avenue A.
His overall approach in a nutshell: use running and weights and professional boxing instruction to enable you to knock an opponent out quickly with an explosive shot to the jaw set up through an effective combination.
Again, don't get me wrong, I like this guy. He knows what he's talking about. He doesn't brag or posture, and he pays respects to others in the field and refers readers to fellow writers with varying approaches. He explains in a clear and engaging fashion how to adapt your boxing training to street/bar fights. What he doesn't do is tell you how to integrate boxing techniques into a mixed-style, holistic approach to self-defense.
Pay no attention to Beaumont's detractors.......2001-10-11
The last person to claim to have all the answers to streetfighting is Beaumont. Not coincidentally, the first person who would tell you to get out there and get at it rather than read books is also Beaumont. That being said, if the subject interests you and if you want to learn from useful, practical advice, get this book. The section on weight training alone is worth the price of _Savage Science_. Furthermore, Ned's style of writing is engaging and entertaining; I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the book even to people who have no intention of fighting.
Great book on western fighting art.......2001-05-10
Ned Beaumont has done it again another great book that is full of info that most people could only learn by training and fighting in the ring , ned saves many the pain of doing this and provides details on boxing that comes only from years of hard work ,research and commitment .Well done Mr Beaumont i look forward to your third book on boxing ( i,m sure you have more than enough info to write several )
Book Description
Your fists are your primary weapon system in a streetfight, but most martial arts "masters" like to gloss over that fact. Now fisticuffs expert Ned Beaumont shows you how to duke it out in back alleys and smoky bars and walk away grinning (with all your teeth). All the dirty tricks of boxing are included, too. Not for the faint of heart, this one is destined to become a classic.
Customer Reviews:
Boxing As A Martial Art.......2006-11-24
Ned Beaumont's "Championship Streetfighting" is an in depth look at the use of boxing for self-defense. Mr. Beaumont begins by looking at boxing as the old-time method of self-defense, and points out the prior to WWII when a man wanted to learn self-defense he studied boxing. Next Mr. Beaumont gives his opinion about the effectiveness of boxing when compared to the traditional Asian martial arts. "Championship Streetfighting" clearly favors boxing as the more effective style for self-defense (as one might expect in a book about boxing), but at the same time Mr. Beaumont points out that any style can be effective when employed by a tough, fit, and knowledgeable fighter.
The majority of "Championship Streetfighting" discusses various techniques and combinations to use boxing for self-defense. This includes the basics of jabs, hooks, upper-cuts, and straight punches. Also discussed are fouls and dirty tricks, which while banned in the sport boxing ring, and very effective for self-defense.
The book ends with a few suggestions for training and getting into shape such as speed bag, heavy bag, conditioning and road work.
"Championship Streetfighting" is mostly text, with just a few illustrations. While perhaps not a training manual, anyone with some basic skill to begin with can certainly learn a few new techniques to add to his arsenal of self-defense capabilities. If you understand a little more than the mere basics of boxing, "Championship Streetfighting" becomes much more useful in teaching combinations which are extremely effective for real-world self-defense.
About the only criticism (and a minor criticism at that) I can offer about the book is that it is a bit light on illustrations. More illustrations or photographs demonstrating the techniques discussed in the text would have enhanced what is otherwise an excellent book.
Mr. Beaumont's recommendation that one interested in self-defense should develop skill in boxing is certainly well-founded. And "Championship Streetfighting" is certainly well recommended for anyone interested in boxing as a martial art.
Fairly useful/extremely biased........2006-07-19
Championship Streetfighting does have it's merits offering some good insight on body mechanics and mindset but comes off with a terrible biased, almost thuggish undertone.
First I'll start with the good. The book goes through a good variety of punching mechanics and some simple combos. Covering the ranges of attacks even, it does help you visualize how and when to execute the punches as well as text with no pictures and crude drawings can. Every topic from stance, defence, dirty fighting and even a controlled, agressive mindset are convered, most followed by a little anecdote about the "old greats" backing up there effectiveness. Overall it is a complete, street adapted guide to boxing techniques. It's no frills, straight forward fighting that a dedicated, fit person could employ as defence within months of training unlike many martial arts.
On the downside there are some things that I could have done without. First and foremost is the tough guy attitude that the book carries. It completely detracts from the boxing as a "martial art" statement. It's more like boxing for brawlers. Nothing against the book itself but it could really turn away the average person who wants to learn to protect himself and his family rather than fight in the streets like a gladiator. Secondly is the ridiculous, uninformed statements it makes against other arts. The author makes a crack at a karate reverse punch but then shows a photo of someone in side stance throwing a regular tsuki (punch), which is a training excercise for the legs and core not a sparring technique. I'd like to point out that a reverse punch is exactly the same fundamentally as the straight right in boxing (rear arm, small shift forward, hip rotation etc...). Criticizing martial arts for their basic training excercises that you learn in the first 3 months (but never stop doing because basics are important remember!!!) to develop your basic body mechanics is just plain uneducated. One of the hardest punchers ever was a karateka, Mas Oyama. The stories are a bit much also, documenting boxing matches so old they are near folklore in many cases. On a technical level, the only thing I can fault it for is the surface area he recommends punching with, which is the last three knucles on the hand. Not only only are the two last smallest, most breaking knuckles backed by the some the smallest most breakable bones in the hand (no wonder he's afraid to punch bare handed throughout the book), it also spreads the impacts across your fist taking away much of the punche's penetration. Hitting with the first 2 knuckles is much stronger, safer and with better impact penetration. Also he could talk a bit more about relaxing and breathing which, will help your power, stamina and state of mind in an encounter.
Again, the book does what it says 99% but it could have been more tasteful in it's approach.
Concise, informative, and entertaining.......2006-06-26
I highly recommend this book for anyone who is looking for some practical advice about self-defense. The author's instructions on how to punch effectively and how to defend against punches and other kinds of attacks are clearly and straightforwardly presented. At the same time, the book makes for an entertaining read given the anecdotes from boxing history Beaumont includes.
Simply the Best.......2006-04-23
This book is terrific. No bragging or boasting on the author's exploits. Just plain and simple fighting techniques. Meat and potatos of a fight.
I've read alot of fighting books and this takes the cake. Every page is useful and practical info. Beaumont explains boxing techniques in an easy and logical manner.
The great thing about this book is it explains boxing alone, and/or boxing techniques to use on the street.
I wish I had bought this book 2 years ago before wasting money on those "Animal" MacYoung books.
Boxing trainer .......2006-03-23
I am a boxing trainer and historian, I collect boxing training manuals and this is one of the most useful ones I have in my collection. Many of the techniques in this book I use when I teach my people how to fight, excellent information and presented in a logical manner.
Average customer rating:
- Manners, plus a little more.
- good book
- A most appropriate tome.
- Etiquette 101
- good laugh, not much else
|
The Modern Gentleman: A Guide to Essential Manners, Savvy & Vice
Phineas Mollod , and
Jason Tesauro
Manufacturer: Ten Speed Press
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Book Description
The Modern Gentleman A Guide to Essential Manners, Savvy & Vice by Phineas Mollod and Jason Tesauro "A man may possess expensive duds, slick wheels, and a tongue to match, but these are not the prerequisites of a gentleman. A gentleman is defined by how he carries himself in fairways and stormy climes. A student of the classics and a pilot of the new, he recommends sizzling reads, pays his gambling debts, mans the grill, and curbs his dog. Reserved, flamboyant, or likely somewhere in between, a gentleman's charisma is cultivated, not canned. He fosters an infectious comfort in others as they quietly marvel at his manner and his hats, from the erudite bowler to the plucky fedora. Little charms performed thoughtfully ensure that inevitable faux pas are measured against a graceful reputation. He can be trusted with his word and your wife."
So begins THE MODERN GENTLEMAN, a visually stimulating, rib-tickling, thought-provoking sourcebook of manners and mischief for the 21st-century male. The book offers a panoramic snapshot of the gentleman: witty and poignant, traditional but spontaneous, flirtatious yet courting. Discussions range from the classic (Motoring, Oenophilia) and serious (Secrets & Lies, The Good Husband), to the racy (Kink & Fetish, To the Power of 3) and silly (Bumper Stickers, Fonzarelli Moves & Legerdemain ). And since it is inevitable that a gentleman will dabble in the friskier areas of excess, trouble, and chance, the book's naughty nucleus, "The Potent Gentleman," explores leisure and dalliance, from alcohol and snuff to recreational botanicals and sex.
All men aspire to be perpetually dapper, fluent in three languages, and hit 300-yard drives off the blue tees, not to mention quote poetry by the stanza and win a back-alley scrap. However, there is a dashing plateau more desirable than Hollywood perfection, a level of gallantry that makes one stand out, even in the elevator. So knot up your ascot, pour a glass of sherry, and crack open the MODERN GENTLEMAN: your Man Cycle is peaking.
Customer Reviews:
Manners, plus a little more. .......2007-10-09
I found this book very entertaining, quite useful and I recommend it highly. For those of you who are aspiring to be a gentlemen, just looking for some fatherly advice, or wish to brush up on how a modern gentleman carries himself, this text has it all. The authors gave an astonishingly educated outlook of the goings on of the modern gentleman in an informative instruction manual without the antiquated feel of an etiquette book.
However, it is true what most of the other reviewers say, "The contents and teachings of this book are mostly common sense", but then again, we all need to be reminded of manners and golden rule commonalities - shouldn't we?
good book.......2007-02-06
fast shipping, book is more of a guide for just neat stuff to know its funny i think, but also has good ideas.
A most appropriate tome........2007-01-26
In this day and age, it seems like so many of our bretheren have forgotton what it means to be a Gentleman. How to act, how to dress, how to BE. This post-mtv youtube-napster generation has absolutely no idea on what it means to be a MAN. A GENTLEman. They need a guide. They need only to follow the light. This book, is the light! In it, you, the common man, will read and learn what it means to be a true Gentleman. How to behave in public situations, how you should treat romantic possibilities, how to dress to make mother proud! Yes, you'll find all that and more, in this dear book. Every man needs to have this in their library. Refer to it now and again to assure that you, too, are a GENTLEMAN.
Etiquette 101.......2006-12-21
This is a great book for any young or older man. It covers topics as varied as "how to do your laundry" to "the proper way to excuse yourself during a coughing attack at dinner". I thought this would be a fun book for a bathroom read, but it actually provides some very good and honest insight. Picture this book as worldly advice your father should have given you.
good laugh, not much else.......2006-07-13
mildly humorous, yet nearly completely devoid of useful information. imaginative language: keep a dictionary on hand. look here if seeking a few good laughs from a couple of witty fellas, dont if pursuing applicable advice.
Customer Reviews:
Branded for life..........1999-12-22
Gaby Cane had always been a bit afraid of Bowie McCayde. When Gaby was fifteen and shaken by tragedy, Bowie's parents had taken her in; yet even on their sprawling Arizona ranch, she had sensed his simmering resentment. Now, a successful journalist, she could hold her own with any man--professionally. And the dark shadows of her past seemed far behind her. Then Bowie came back into her life: handsome, rich, and threateningly sexy. He said he needed her help to save the ranch. Reluctantly, Gaby agreed to retun, never dreaming Bowie would be there too. And when he pinned her up against the rough wood of a stable wall, his lips hard and demanding upon hers, she never dreamed his touch would awaken a hunger she couldn't deny. Suddenly, for the first time in her life, she wanted more from a man. But "more" meant that Bowie might find out about the little girl she once was. And Gaby didn't dare risk that. Not for anything.
Customer Reviews:
A Nice Week-end Read.......2005-12-04
I get so annoyed when people seek to impose Twenty-First Century sensibilities and political correctness on Eighteenth Century Conduct. I want my authors to be true to the era they are writing about. One of my reasons for reading these historical romances/erotica is so as to learn about the practices and everyday living experiences of days gone by. I don't want it tidied up and sanitized. So yes, homosexuality was frowned upon and taboo and not to be openly accepted and that was how it was up until quite recently. Tell it like it is!!!
I loved the romance between Myles and Suisan... and thought Ms. Lamb must have been attempting to write about a Saint rather than a hero because Myles could not be more perfect. Again, in today's world, he would be charged with sexual harrassment with the way he went after some-one in his employ but that was how it was back in the day. Masters took what they wanted when they wanted. If it had to be done, Myles way of doing it was so sweet and arousing. He treated her as a person and not just a body.
I like the way Ms. Lamb tied up all the loose ends. There was no question left unanswered. If I have to quibble about anything it would that it gets quite tiresome when it takes forever for the characters to see what is the truth staring them in the face. The way Suisan kept desperately hanging on to her preconceived idea of who and what Myles was did get on my nerves a bit, which resulted in my skipping some paragraphs as I just didn't want to hear it anymore. Also, Ms Lamb has the most annoying habit - shared with most of these writers - of being sloppy about the after-effect of lovemaking. Please don't tell me about their heavy bout of sex - all the minute details before and during - and then tell me that she then pulled her dress down and went about her business. I just read a book by Lisa Kleypas and I shouted "Finally some-one gets it!" It added to the story rather than detracted from it in telling us that both participants understand that some cleaning up is required after. And too, while Suisan was concerned about getting pregnant she did nothing to try to protect herself whilst Myles seemed not to be aware that that pregnancy could be a more than likely outcome.
Learnt a lot about history from the Scottish point of few. All in all I am giving this 4 1/2 stars! Nice, relaxing read.
The Traditional Values Coalition seal of approval?.......2004-09-12
I was shocked, and eventually creeped out, by the amount of gay-bashing in this book -- especially by characters who are supposed to be heroes. There was no solid plot reason for the bad guy to be gay, so I have to suppose Arnette Lamb simply doesn't like homosexuals very much. Other reviewers have mentioned the infuriating thick-headedness of the heroine, the squickiness of the brother-sister romance, and the woodenness of the dialogue, so I won't bother repeating those complaints. I would normally expect better -- and a little more sympathy for the underdog -- from a best-selling author.
A great Scottish romance.......2003-05-29
This book kept me interested throughout - it is my first of this authors and I will definitely look to read more of hers.
Great plot and history to go with the romance.
Not a book that I enjoyed as much as I should have..........2000-11-30
I am very much a fan of Arnette Lamb, but I was a bit dissapointed reading this. Alright, a lot dissapointed. Especially since the beginning is gorgeous, beautiful and romantically perfect with the promise of being a five-star book.
However, the plot wavered a bit, was strong in some places but weak in others. Suisan's determination and and goals morph dramatically, on top of the Big Misunderstanding, all caused by the evil Robert who's motives were completely unbelievable. There were a lot of things that I didn't believe.
I didn't believe the dialogue--it was flat, boring, unsensational, and scripted. I didn't believe anyone's motives, and the plot was pervasively "blah" in parts. That's not to say the book didn't have it's merits, however. The idea of Suisan masquerading as a maid was original and had incredible potential. But the characters were continually arguing and mistrusting, that I didn't really enjoy it.
Based on other reviews, I can see that it was rather well-liked, so whether or not I would reccomend this is based entirely on how nit-picky you get over plots and realness. :)
U can't ask for ne Better.......2000-07-15
Suisan and Myles are like perfectly made for each other. Their romance is just SOOoo sweet and original. My favourite parts was when Myles getz jealous and possessive of 'Maura' itz soo cute, the bit how he came naked 2 the kitchen and Cookson coming down the stairs and lastly the part where he getz depressed becoz Maura's left him, like he was heart broken but won't admit it itz just soo charming and sweet. Oh and also the bit where Myles winz the Mackenzie at arm wrestling and telling him about the bluddy sheets and thingz it wuz very funny. Myles and Suisan glow,like a burning fire in the middle of winter. Threads of Destiny is just a book that you won't be able to put down once u pick it up. And afterwards, one can not help but re-read and re-read it again and again, u'd neva get fed up wiff it. This book is definitely worth buying and waiting for, and also for somefin just as enchanting as Thread of Destiny, Border Bride also one of the few books Arnette Lamb has cast a spell, u would never get fed up wiff it!
Book Description
Three irresistible novels about the lighter side of love . . .
They never knew what hit them . . .
IRRESISTIBLE?
Starving artist Ellie Sutherland is taking drastic measures to correct her nonexistent love life -- including offering herself as a guinea pig in a sex study! And something's definitely working . . . because suddenly, Ellie has men falling all over her, including lawyer Mark Blackwell. But once the study is over, will he still find her irresistible?
KIDS IS A 4-LETTER WORD
Jo Montgomery is an interior decorator, not a baby-sitter. Still, when she discovers her new client's baby-sitter tied to the stake, what can she do but untie the poor woman and watch her run for the hills? And after ten minutes with the little darlings, she's ready to do the same -- until she meets the kids' gorgeous father . . .
WIFE IS A 4-LETTER WORD
Alan Parish thinks things can't get any worse, when he finds himself dumped on his wedding day. But when Pamela Kaminski decides to join him on his honeymoon, Alan's really in a fix. Because Pam is beautiful, desirable . . . and his former fiancée's maid of honor. And the more time Alan spends with her, the less honorable his intentions become . . .
Customer Reviews:
Light hearted fun.......2003-08-27
If you like lighthearted fun to read stories- this book is for you- it is a collection of 3 short stories by stephanie bond where laughs/comedy are the main drawing point.
1. irresistable- about an artist who is secretly taking phermones and falls in love with an attorney who may or may not be attracted to her because of her new chemicals.
2. kids is a 4 letter word- is about an interior designer who becomes the not so willing baby sitter of 3 little hellions when she is out on assignment to remake their dad's mansion.
3. wife is a 4 letter word- is about a cancelled weddding and what happens when the groom and maid of honor decide to take the honey moon trip together
all stories are full of laughs and very fun to read-
Light hearted fun.......2003-08-27
If you like lighthearted fun to read stories- this book is for you- it is a collection of 3 short stories by stephanie bond where laughs/comedy are the main drawing point.
1. irresistable- about an artist who is secretly taking phermones and falls in love with an attorney who may or may not be attracted to her because of her new chemicals.
2. kids is a 4 letter word- is about an interior designer who becomes the not so willing baby sitter of 3 little hellions when she is out on assignment to remake their dad's mansion.
3. wife is a 4 letter word- is about a cancelled weddding and what happens when the groom and maid of honor decide to take the honey moon trip together
all stories are full of laughs and very fun to read-
You have got to get this book!!.......2003-06-12
I just received my order yesterday and couldn't wait to start reading Lovestruck. I am having such a good time reading it! Funny, fresh and well written. I'm so caught up in the stories I hate to put the book down, but I had to, so I could urge other readers to get this book, you won't be sorry!
Amazon.com
Setting: The Planet Windarra, sometime in the future
Sensuality: 8
Born and raised in the far-off East on the Planet Windarra, Sariana Dayne's business expertise is desperately needed by the West sector's flamboyant Avylyn clan, but even her cool logic can't solve a serious business theft. Desperate, she devises a scheme to employ a member of the warrior Shield clan in the recovery operation. Unfortunately for Sariana's peace of mind, her practical plan turns shaky when she gazes into the fierce eyes of the Shield mercenary Gryph Chassyn, and realizes that she may have bitten off more than she can chew. Gryph takes one look at Sariana and decides that she's one of the few women in the world who could become his Shield mate. Unfamiliar with the West sector's Shield society, Sariana can't even guess what mating with Gryph will do to her life--she only knows he stirs a depth of passion in her that she can't deny. Before she grasps the consequences, Sariana is allied with the powerful mercenary and they set off on a dangerous journey to recover the stolen prism cutter. Along the way, they discover unexpected possibilities in their bonding, even as their lives are threatened with deadly peril. And if they can only survive the obstacles, Gryph and Sariana just may change the future of Shield society forever.
The multitalented Krentz flexes her fantasy muscles in this absorbing story of love on a planet far, far away. The heroine is sharp-tongued and quick-witted and she's paired with a hero who is equally intelligent and physically powerful. As expected from Krentz, the fast-paced story is expertly plotted with superb sexual tension in all the right places. Small wonder that Krentz is on the shortlist of the most successful romance authors of the decade; two chapters into this novel and you'll know exactly why she's so popular. --Lois Faye Dyer
Customer Reviews:
Fun!.......2003-04-18
If you are a fan of Jayne Ann Krentz's humor and full story plots, like fantasy and romance this book is for you. I fully enjoyed it as well as Sweet Starfire and Crytal Flame. I own most of her books and re-read them all more than once. I think if you do enjoy these books you will also enjoy her "flower" series of books written as Jayne Castle - "Amarylis", "Orchid" and "Zinnia".
Should have moved on!.......2000-10-12
I have to admit, I was disappointed. Granted, this is a reprint of a 10 year old book, but it should have stayed there in memory. I did not read many romances then as most of them seemed to involve women who were "pounced on" (marginally acceptable) or raped (completely unacceptable)and the rest of the book telling you why it is OK 'cause they "were meant for each other." No way! I gave it 3 stars as this book has some redeeming factors and the hero isn't as bad as some. The heroine is childish, but improves. I prefer Jayne's newer stuff.
Futuristic Adventure and Romance.......2000-05-26
This book combines the "road trip" adventure of "Sweet Starfire" (still JAK's best futuristic) and the battle between the sexes element of "Crystal Flame."
JAK makes it possible to believe that these characters are destined to be together. She picks characters who are great together because they're different in all the right ways and alike in other ways. In the hands of another author, the concept of the "Shield" might have been silly, but JAK makes it work.
I wish JAK would write more romances set in the far future, like this one, instead of her more recent futurstic series. People like _these_ books more.
Anne M. Marble, All About Romance
Shield's Lady.......2000-04-03
I have read and re-read this book so many times I have to tell everyone that this is just so great that I wish the author would write several sequel stories! Please Jayne - even just one more?
sheilds lady.......2000-02-17
I own all of jayne krentz's books, all of her books writing as jayne castle and amanda quick and quite a few as stephanie james. i think i appreciate the touchs of humor more than any other thing except for the obvious romance she brings to all her writings I wish she would do more futuristic novels; she has a sure deft touch in the genre.
Average customer rating:
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Swept Away (Lovestruck)
Julie Tetel
Manufacturer: Popular Library
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Look Inside Romance Books
| Trip
| Specialty Stores
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General
| Historical
| Romance
| Subjects
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ASIN: 0445209224 |
Average customer rating:
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Night Flight (Lovestruck)
Eileen Nauman
Manufacturer: Warner Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Contemporary
| Romance
| Subjects
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Look Inside Romance Books
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ASIN: 0445210206 |
Average customer rating:
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Savage Tides (Lovestruck)
Mary Mayer Holmes
Manufacturer: Warner Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Contemporary
| General
| Literature & Fiction
| Subjects
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General
| Historical
| Romance
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 0445208848 |
Customer Reviews:
Actually 3 1/2 stars.......2002-09-03
I really did enjoy "This Time Forever" but I have to say it wasn't my favorite, and although I loved the first half or so and then the last few chapters, there was an underlying feeling of sadness to much of the story. Although I always had the desire to keep reading on to find out if Lilly and Chase would be reunited, it would have been better if it happened earlier and more story then could have covered the life of Lilly and Chase and their children together. It would have been wonderful if they could have gone to Salt Lake City to visit their Morman friends: Hiriam, Mary, and Catheryn, in which Lilly shared so many years with and trials and tribulations with. I love all of Rosanne Bittner's books, but I'm not sure if this will be a keeper, because there was too much of a sad feeling to much of the story to want to reread when there are so many happier choices available. Seventeen years between them first falling in love and then finally getting together again is too long. I found myself at times, wanting the story to get over with so they could be together again, but then once they were together I really did not want it to end. If you want a book that may make you cry with the frustration of unrequitted love and other hardships, read this book. If you love Rosanne Bittner's books, but not yet read this one, read this book. If you never have read Rosanne Bittner, but want to start, maybe another one of her books is a better place to start; may I suggest "Unforgettable", "Savage Love: Sweet Prarie Passion", "Outlaw Love". or "Love's Bounty".
Interesing Historical Romance.......2000-10-17
I don't usually mess with light romance novels, but this came to me at a wonderful half price book store in Columbus, Ohio and since I bought it, I had to read it. I was very pleased and surprised with the story and content and some of the history of the Mormons which I really know very little about. I guess I can go into some detail since no one else has reviewed it. Lilly B. comes to America from Scotland, loses her Mom on the way, becomes involved with a Mormon family and with a good looking young man, Chase Mitchell. they have SEX and he goes to Mexico to fight, leaving her very pregnant. (Horrors) She marries a Mormon man but cannot get very into their sex life. Eventually, she gets rich, thanks to her lovely singing voice and naturally, she and Chase find each other in the end when their son is grown. It really is worth reading, if nothing else but to learn something about the Mormons.
Product Description
multiple books ship as one item. save on shipping/handling charges.
Books:
- The Illustrated Wise Words and Country Ways
- The Master Mind of Mars and A Fighting Man of Mars
- The Power of Animals: An Ethnography
- The Psychological Birth of the Human Infant: Symbiosis and Individuation
- The Sea Surface and Global Change
- The Southern Harmony and Musical Companion
- The Voice of Knowledge : A Practical Guide to Inner Peace (Toltec Wisdom)
- The Windward Road: Adventures of a Naturalist on Remote Caribbean Shores
- There's a Porcupine in My Outhouse: Misadventures of a Mountain Man Wannabe (Capital Discovery)
- Touch the Earth: A Self Portrait of Indian Existence
Books Index
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