Books

Book Description

Terry Brooks is one of a handful of writers whose work defines modern fantasy fiction. His twenty-three international bestsellers have ranged from the beloved Shannara series to stories that tread a much darker path. Armageddon’s Children is a new creation–the perfect opportunity for readers unfamiliar with Brooks’s previous work to experience an author at the height of his considerable storytelling powers. It is a gripping chronicle of a once-familiar world now spun shockingly out of control, in which an extraordinary few struggle to salvage hope in the face of terrifying chaos.

Logan Tom is doomed to remember the past and determined to rescue the future. Far behind him lies a boyhood cut violently short by his family’s slaughter, when the forces of madness and hate swept our world after decadent excesses led to civilization’s downfall. Somewhere ahead of him rests the only chance to beat back the minions of evil that are systematically killing and enslaving the last remnants of humanity. Navigating the scarred and poisoned landscape that once was America and guided by a powerful talisman, Logan has sworn an oath to seek out a remarkable being born of magic, possessed of untold abilities, and destined to lead the final fight against darkness.

Across the country, Angel Perez, herself a survivor of the malevolent, death-dealing forces combing the land, has also been chosen for an uncanny mission in the name of her ruined world’s salvation. From the devastated streets of Los Angeles, she will journey to find a place–and a people–shrouded in mystery, celebrated in legend, and vital to the cause of humankind . . . even as a relentless foe follows close behind, bent on her extermination. While in the nearly forsaken city of Seattle, a makeshift family of refugees has carved out a tenuous existence among the street gangs, mutants, and marauders fighting to stay alive against mounting odds–and something unspeakable that has come from the shadows in search of prey.

In time, all their paths will cross. Their common purpose will draw them together. Their courage and convictions will be tested and their fates will be decided, as their singular crusade begins: to take back, or lose forever, the only world they have.

In Armageddon’s Children, Brooks brings his gifts as a mythmaker to the timeless theme of the unending, essential conflict between darkness and light–and carries his unique imaginative vision to a stunning new level. Prepare for a breathtaking tour de force. To those who are new to Terry Brooks, welcome. And to those who have read him for many years: prepare for a dramatic surprise.

Customer Reviews:

Great Book.......2007-06-15

I love the shannara books and I am looking forward the next books.

Not much I can say........2007-06-13

There isn't much I can say about this book. It's not terrible, but I felt a little bored throughout the entire story. I tried to get into the Running With the Demon stuff a while back, but I couldn't stand that. This, for some reason, didn't seem quite as bad, but a lot of nights I had to force myself into the mood to read it. I also felt that Brooks spent way to much of the book explaining the same material over and over. He could've added a little more action and adventure in there instead of drilling it in our heads that the story takes place in a post apocalyptic world and that these kids have a tough life. Anyways, I think Terry Brooks fans will enjoy it, but I wouldn't recommend it to somebody just looking for something new.

If you love animals, don't read this book.......2007-06-11

I was enjoying this book even though it is dark, until he graphically described the killing of a dog.

I see the circle closing.......2007-06-09

I see the mastery of Terry Brooks' skills coming out in this book. He is finally taking all of the hidden nuggets he installed in the Shannara series and brought the story to its beginnings. Finding out that it all ties together so nicely is as much fun as reading the story itself. If you read the first series of Word and Void, then this will mature the entire story. You'll love it.

the only true re-occuring main character, planet Earth!.......2007-05-30

In this book, one I always hoped, but never thought would actally be published is this holocost that everyone in Shanarra series was talking about that caused the world to get the fanciful way it ended up. Does not explace how magic came in to being too well that is the only difference between the fanciful kindoms of Shanaara and owr world we call "earth" or some such dribble. I know for a fact, Terry Brooks decided early on to bridge his "New modern series" starting wtih "Running with the Deaom" with the Shanarra series, it only seemed logical, fantasy in a modern era? Hmm. well, had to be the same universe as the Shanaara series, any low brow Flick Olmsford dult knows that well enough! I advise, for continuitey purpose, also playing the game "Shanara" in between readings of Sword and Elfstones to get the Jak Olmsford link, though not nessasarily referenced in any book, its a good filler and fun! Even so It is these Armageddon trilogy that gives any of these books meaning, including the Running with the Deamon stuff. If read in corect order,(though order has always been a pet peave to tell some one else to) The Word and Void series should be read prior to this after both of these read the Sword of Shanaara Series then Scions and the Heritage series quadrillogy, and the sporatically laid out other branches of books after that, as in Jeril and the balloon and all that guff.

Average customer rating:

The Washington Story: A History of Our State: Centennial Edition Ruth Pelz , and Seattle Public Schools Manufacturer: Murray Publishing Co ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback ASIN: 0931754208

Average customer rating: High growth church Humbling, Helpful, Honest and sometimes Painful no 3-point breakdown, or filled with theological buzz words... I LOVE THIS BOOK! Compelling Truths

Confessions of a Reformission Rev.: Hard Lessons from an Emerging Missional Church (The Leadership Network Innovation) Mark Driscoll Manufacturer: Zondervan ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books Religious | Leaders & Notable People | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books Ministry | Ministry & Church Leadership | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books General | Evangelism | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books Social Theology | Theology | Religious Studies | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books Look Inside Biographies | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books Look Inside Religion & Spirituality Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books Similar Items: The Radical Reformission: Reaching Out without Selling Out Breaking the Missional Code: Your Church Can Become a Missionary in Your Community Listening to the Beliefs of Emerging Churches: Five Perspectives Planting Missional Churches The Missional Leader: Equipping Your Church to Reach a Changing World (J-B Leadership Network Series) ASIN: 0310270162

Book Description

An inside snapshot view of the innovative Seattle church called Mars Hill and its Acts 29 network, providing--with a touch of sarcasm and humor--both principles and practices shared from the people actually doing missional church ministry with people often untouched by today’s traditional and contemporary churches.

Customer Reviews:

High growth church.......2007-06-27

Interesting review of a Seattle church that went from storefront to megachurch status in nine years. Author is as much entrepreneur as minister - much like high growth business owners, he constantly started and killed ministries, hired/fired staff accordingly, and shifted locations on a regular basis and took risks in doing so. He also identifies the types of people he wants and doesn't want as church members and shows how technology can be used to attract and communicate with parishioners.

Humbling, Helpful, Honest and sometimes Painful.......2007-06-21

This book had the interesting effect of making me laugh, wince, and take notes, sometimes all on the same page! At the end of the day, I could not put the book down. I was captivated by a transparent pastor's heart who struggled day after day to put Jesus before his city in effort to see many converted.

The book chronicles the life of Mars Hill Church in Seattle, Washington where Mark Driscoll has been the Senior Pastor since its inception. Driscoll takes readers through the various stages of growth from a small broken down Bible study with "Indie Rockers" and "artsy" folks to a thriving megachurch of over 4,000 impacting one of the most unchurched regions in the US.

In his narrative Driscoll explains, from first hand experience, some of the gestational development of the now prominent Emergent Church. Driscoll himself was involved, and in fact a leader in, a movement in the mid-90's to mobilize missionaries to their culture, impacting them with the gospel of Christ. As this movement expanded and gained traction Driscoll had to separate himself from it:

"I had to distance myself, however, from one of the many streams in the emerging church because of the theological differences. Since the late 1990's this stream has become known as Emergent. The Emergent Church is part of the Emerging Church Movement but does not embrace the dominant ideology of the movement. Rather the emergent church is the latest version of liberalism. The only difference is that the old liberalism accommodated modernity and the new liberalism accommodates postmodernity." (p. 21)

So here Driscoll is distinquishing between Emerging and Emergent...himself clinging to the prevailing positives of the Emerging movement (missional, theological, active) while distancing himself from the atheolgoical wing of the movement (Emergent).

In many ways this book appears to be a living apologetic of the Emerging movement while distinguishing Driscoll as one of its most outspoken and able leaders. Perhaps this is why we see Driscoll speaking at a conference along with Brian McLaren, the outspoken leader of the Emergent wing.

In fact Driscoll references McLaren in Confessions:

"Although I sincerely love Brian and appreciate the kindness he has shown me, I generally disagree with many of his theological conclusions. Because he comes from a pacifistic Brethren background, such things as power and violence greatly trouble him. His pacifism seems to underlie many of our theological disagreements since he has a hard time accepting such things as the violence of penal substitutionary atonement, parts of the Old Testament where God killed people, and the concept of conscious eternal torment in hell. Curiously, it is also Brian's pacifism that makes him such a warmly engaging person who is able to speak and write about theologically controversial issues while being gracious. Ironically, my love for and disagreement with Brian are both borne out of his pacifism. But I find it curious that, from my perspective, he is using his power as a writer and speaker to do violence to Scripture in the name of pacifism." (p.99)

His point here about pacifism and violence to God's word is worth the price of the book. That is the type of silent violence that characterizes the neo-liberalism named Emergent.

I love the resolve of Driscoll throughout the book. There were resistance and trials at every bend and still God graciously moved the church and its leadership through each. In fact, Driscoll regularly attaches the growth to the respective trials. On one occasion Mars Hill tried to do concerts and preaching outside by the river and were mooned and flashed by boaters going by. This, according to Driscoll, increased interest in the community and ultimately attendance.

There are so many pages that are outright hilarious. The following is a quote concerning a worship pastor:

"I really liked Tim because he is one of the few manly men whom I have ever seen leading worship. I am not supposed to say this, but most of the worship dudes I have heard are not very dudely. They seem to be very in touch with their feelings and exceedingly chickified from playing too much acoustic guitar and singing prom songs to Jesus while channeling Michael Bolton and flipping their hair. Tim was a guy who brewed his own beer, smoked a pipe, rock climbed, mountain biked, river rafted, carried a knife in his belt, and talked about what he thought more than what he felt.

We clicked because I drive a 1978 Chevy truck that gets single digits to the gallon and has a bacon air freshener and no functioning speedometer and because I fashion myself as the self-appointed leader of a heterosexual male backlash in our overly chickified city filled with guys drinking herbal tea and rocking out to Mariah Carey in their lemon yellow Volkswagen Cabriolets while wearing fuchsia sweater vests that perfectly match their open-toed shoes." (pp. 146-7)

Mark Driscoll is definitely a guy that I would want to have at a barbecue but may be reluctant to have speak at my church...but ironically both for the same reasons.

Overall I really enjoyed the book. From a pastor's perspective it was awesome; refreshing and encouraging. The positives for this book are found in Driscoll's willingness to share the ecclesiastical lab that he has worked in for the last 15 years. Driscoll understands church, leadership and has a passion to reach and change culture for the glory of Christ.

At the same time I am reluctant to openly recommend it. Driscoll does use crass language throughout the book (which is alarming and curious in light of 1 Tim. 4.12 & Eph. 4.29), and so therefore I am not comfortable putting it on a top 10 list. At the same time, from what I have read in the blogosphere and its relative outrage of Driscoll's language, I think they have, in large part, overreacted and missed the many of the great points and lessons of the book.

Driscoll also sympathizes with Rick Warren, even crediting him with significant pastorly influence on him. This is not surprising considering Driscoll's continued affiliation with Robert Schuller and company at the Crystal Cathedral. This is curios and I do not understand why he is holding hands with these guys who are not straightforward about the truth of the gospel (Warren) and who deny the truth of the gospel (Schuller).

Driscoll also makes it clear that he is charismatic, even asserting regularly that he receives additional revelation from God, prays and speaks against demons (however, Driscoll does say that he does not speak in tongues).

As an aside, I look forward to the upcoming Desiring God Conference where Driscoll will be on the panel with conservatives such as John Piper, DA Carson & David Wells. I would love to be a fly on the wall when DA Carson and him chat about life and ministry and Driscoll mixes in a reference to Jesus as a dude....oh the diversity of the body... "Christ is all and in all" (Col. 3.11).

no 3-point breakdown, or filled with theological buzz words..........2007-06-17

I really liked the book. I like the honesty from Mark, his willingness to be vulnerable, the insights to tough situations and early challenges of building a Christ-centered Mars Hill, the humor, and its "rough draft" form. On a side note...this air filter kicks some serious butt---->Duracraft DY-012 Oscillating 3-Speed Tower Fan :>

I LOVE THIS BOOK!.......2007-06-13

No punches pulled. This not ecclesiology for those who like organs, robes, cut flowers, tapestry upholstery, "preacher voices", and Psalty.

The church is in turmoil. What should it look like in the 21st century? what is a missional church? How, exactly, are we to be salt in a no-sodium age? The story of Driscoll's planting experience with Mars Hill Church in Seattle is one that EVERY Christian should read and heed. (And no, mainstream keyboard/skit/sermonette formulas are not the answer either.) We gotta open the BIBLE, preach tough sermons that proclaim the truth in a culturally relevant way, and get over ourselves. Read this book and let's get busy...

Compelling Truths.......2007-06-10

Just so we all know, i fit comfortably within Mark's theological framework, which i understand some people struggle with. I guess i simply see it as truth and i don;t see it as being arrogant, in fact one of the things i loved about the book was Mark's refreshing honesty and humility that shines through every page.

Mark is a brilliant writer, easy to read with hilarious yet insightful stories which add to his commentary on the growth of Mars Hill. it is wonderful to hear a guy stating his full reliance upon God and belief in the power of the gospel for salvation, and then to see him living it out, mistakes and all.

For anyone younger, in particular i believe, who is considering planting churches or who is involved in frontline ministry i wholeheartedly recommend this book to you.

Average customer rating: Our westward adventure Travel Review Great Book On Seattle And Its Environs

Frommer's Seattle 2007 (Frommer's Complete) Karl Samson Manufacturer: Frommer's ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback Guidebooks | Reference & Tips | Travel | Subjects | Books Frommer's | Guidebook Series | Travel | Subjects | Books Pacific | West | Regions | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books General | Washington | States | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books Seattle | Washington | States | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books North America | Travel | Subjects | Books General | Travel | Subjects | Books Look Inside Travel Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books Similar Items: Frommer's Vancouver & Victoria 2007: With coverage of Whistler (Frommer's Complete) Streetwise Seattle (Streetwise) Top 10 Seattle (Eyewitness Travel Guides) Frommer's Washington State (Frommer's Complete) Best Places Seattle: The Locals' Guide to the Best Resturants, Lodging, Sights, Shopping, and More! (Best Places) ASIN: 0470047313

Book Description

Experience a place the way the locals do. Enjoy the best it has to offer. Frommer's. The best trips start here.

• An insider's perspective on Seattle's neighborhoods and nightspots.
• Outspoken opinions on what's worth your time and what's not.
• Exact prices, so you can plan the perfect trip whatever your budget.
• Off-the-beaten-path experiences and undiscovered gems, plus new takes on top attractions.

Customer Reviews:

Our westward adventure.......2007-05-07

Because we have never been to Seattle, I wanted to gather as much information as I could on the "must see" attractions before our trip. This guide includes a walking tour of Pikes Place Market we intend to follow...probably would not have known about the gum wall within the market if I had not read this suggested tour. I thought it was very informative & I have referred back to it several times as I map out our itinerary. I believe our trip will be more enjoyable because of the information provided within the pages of this book. I plan to take the guide with us for unbiased reference on our adventure.

Travel Review.......2007-03-15

Great little informative travel book. Frommer's is the best for updated information about your travel destinations. I would recommend this book to anyone!

Great Book On Seattle And Its Environs.......2006-12-22

FROMMER'S SEATTLE 2007 is a great book about Seattle, Washington, and its surrounding suburbs. Although it is geared towards travellers from abroad, U.S. citizens can learn a great deal from this book about how to keep themselves safe in the area as well. Two things it IS lacking are a discussion of shopping malls just outside of the city and a section on radio stations, but it's still a great book, and you should buy it, regardless of whether you're actually planning to visit Seattle any time soon.

Average customer rating: good resource Handy Book for moving great book for the seattle area Stands Out from the Rest Not very useful

Newcomer's Handbook for Moving to and Living in Seattle Including Bellevue, Redmond, Everett, and Tacoma Monica Fischer , and Amy Bellamy Manufacturer: First Books ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback General | Washington | States | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books Seattle | Washington | States | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books General | Travel | Subjects | Books Look Inside Travel Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books Similar Items: Seattle Survival Guide: The Essential Handbook for Seattle and Eastside Living Streetwise Seattle (Streetwise) Best Places Seattle: The Locals' Guide to the Best Resturants, Lodging, Sights, Shopping, and More! (Best Places) Relocating to Seattle and Surrounding Areas: Everything You Need to Know Before You Move and After You Get There! (Relocating) Lonely Planet Seattle ASIN: 0912301511

Customer Reviews:

good resource.......2007-05-07

this is good comprehensive resource for those moving to seattle. its full of useful information. i used it to read about different neighborhoods, figure out where to buy furniture, how to set up my phone, and get general information about the city from across the country. its great

Handy Book for moving.......2007-01-12

I moved from San Diego to Seattle with very little knowledge about Seattle. This book was a great reference and I felt like I knew enough from this book that I could make the move fairly smoothly (which I did).

great book for the seattle area.......2006-08-05

Just moved to seattle, and received this book as a going away gift. It was very helpful in trying to figure out features of the different regions , and also other things, like bike trails, utility companies, etc. Definitely a helpful book

Stands Out from the Rest.......2005-09-11

At this point, I feel like I have aquired one too many books on Seattle. Yes, there are only so many ways to tell a person where Pike's Place Market is and I'm sure they all get you to Seattle Center. Yet, I did purchase this one, and am happy for it. This was more of a relocation guide, giving exact details on searching for apartments, moving, and getting settled. It listed all the important things we are going to need (with phone numbers, company addresses and even websites) like renter's insurance, utilities and everything else. As well, it is a tourist-type book, showing attractions, but it shows more of the "underground" things to do.

I looked through the series for other cities, and the whole series is pretty awesome. It is tailored specifically for each city, giving different information that is necessary for each locale.

Not very useful.......2005-09-05

Didn't use this book at all. Had hoped for info I wouldn't be able to find. For me was a waste of money.

Average customer rating: Great Book On Seattle I would recommend other guidebooks Great book for visitors What a great travel guide!

Best Places Seattle: The Locals' Guide to the Best Resturants, Lodging, Sights, Shopping, and More! (Best Places) Manufacturer: Sasquatch Books ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback Central | Regions | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books Pacific | West | Regions | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books General | Washington | States | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books Seattle | Washington | States | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books Best Places | Guidebook Series | Travel | Subjects | Books General | Travel | Subjects | Books Look Inside Travel Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books Similar Items: Streetwise Seattle (Streetwise) Newcomer's Handbook for Moving to and Living in Seattle Including Bellevue, Redmond, Everett, and Tacoma Frommer's Seattle 2006 (Frommer's Complete) Seattle Survival Guide: The Essential Handbook for Seattle and Eastside Living Top 10 Seattle (Eyewitness Travel Guides) ASIN: 1570614083

Book Description

Written by local reviewers, Best Places guides let travelers in on the best a city or region has to offer. A listing in a Best Places guide is coveted. To get one star is an honor. To get four stars is extremely rare and guaranteed to be the créme de la créme. While other guides give readers choices, Best Places distinguishes itself by providing vacationers with the absolute best choices and stands by its guides with a money-back guarantee. Best Places Seattle is a stalwart member of the Best Places series and is the smartest guide to one of the hottest cities in America. Useful icons indicate which places are family-oriented, of great value, romantic, or simply unique to Seattle. And, of course, there's the always-changing, star-rated list of the top 200 restaurants in the city. Completely updated and revamped, this new edition provides invaluable information and helpful advice for anyone traveling to Seattle.

Customer Reviews:

Great Book On Seattle.......2006-03-09

BEST PLACES SEATTLE is a great book on where all the good stuff is in the Seattle area. However, it doesn't tell you what to avoid, so it is a bit slanted. Even so, the book is well-written, and I highly recommend it.

I would recommend other guidebooks.......2005-10-31

I think this is a pretty awful guidebook. After doing going onto Seattle Citysearch, we found a lot of recommendations that weren't even mentioned in the book. Ivar's, Crabpot, that had raving reviews, and even mentioned in the city's free brochures weren't mentioned. It didn't really tell me what they thought about each place. I don't want a babbling description of a place, but more of "great food!" or "don't miss!" or "it might not be worth the money"

Some of the Top 25 attractions I would question. For example, Pioneer Square was very desolate on the weekend. From the locals, we got the impression that it's more a nightlife center. Also, if you're not into doing every little touristy stuff and spending the money, i don't think you can find anything to do, according to the book!

For a person that's going for the first time trying to find out what is good to see or do, it is awful. The brochures and maps collection in the hotels and stores were more helpful, and that's sad.

Great book for visitors.......2003-10-05

We keep a copy of this book in our guest room. Lots of people who have stayed with us have used it and have been very happy with the information it contains (short trips to take or activities to do in and around the Seattle area).

My only criticism is that the section with restaurant recommendations is lacking -- but the dining culture of Seattle changes so frequently that this isn't a significant negative for a general-purpose "Best Places" book.

What a great travel guide!.......2002-06-09

This guide was amazing! I was extremely pleased with it & I will definetly buy more "Best Places" guides in the future.

Average customer rating: A diluted and then truncated try at a novel. It's not really a novel. The book had no ending... you can't fool mother nature Incoherent blatherings

Surveillance: A Novel Jonathan Raban Manufacturer: Pantheon ProductGroup: Book Binding: Hardcover Literary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books Psychological & Suspense | Thrillers | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books Suspense | Thrillers | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books General | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books Look Inside Fiction Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books Look Inside Mystery & Thriller Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books Similar Items: Then We Came to the End: A Novel The Castle in the Forest: A Novel Christine Falls: A Novel Ten Days in the Hills Falling Man: A Novel ASIN: 0375422447 Release Date: 2007-01-30

Book Description

In the not-too-distant future, national identity cards are mandatory, and America has become obsessed with intelligence-gathering. The government’s scrutiny is omnipresent, civilians freely indulge their curiosity on the Internet, journalists pursue their investigations with relentless determination, and children both snoop on their parents and manipulate new technologies.

In Seattle, the unfulfilled actor Tad Zachary now performs mostly in the Department of Homeland Security’s fictional disaster scenarios, while his friend and neighbor Lucy Bengstrom struggles to support her eleven-year-old daughter, Alida, on a freelance journalist’s meager income–with their landlord providing additional threats. Then Lucy is assigned to write a profile of August Vanags, a retired professor turned best-selling author with his memoir of a childhood ravaged by World War II, but the validity of his account grows questionable, even as Lucy and Alida are charmed by both Vanags and his lonesome wife.

Everyone here is under surveillance or conducting it, and at risk of confusing what might be true for what actually is–a distinction not easily honored in a time of personal stress and widespread panic, when terrorist attack and literary fraud lurk around every corner. With precision and compassion, Jonathan Raban captures not only a peculiar period in our ongoing history but also a rich variety of lives caught up in fault lines that reach throughout society.

Customer Reviews:

A diluted and then truncated try at a novel........2007-06-27

Reminds me of Jonathan Franzen's early Strong Motion, which is a much much better read. I regret to say that this is probably the worst book I've ever finished.

It's not really a novel. .......2007-06-16

I became interested in this after hearing Raban on a segment of Christopher Lydon's Open Source radio program. This is not, as it claims to be, a novel; it's more of a sketch of American post-9/11 paranoia in a country where everybody's watching somebody, and being watched. It's interesting, and I found myself giving it the benefit of the doubt... right up to the last couple of pages, where Raban gives us a stagey non-ending. I can't say it was a waste of time, but I am glad I got it from the library instead of buying it.

The book had no ending..........2007-05-24

I enjoyed reading this book immensely until I came to the last page which was like one of those movies that leaves you saying "wha'".. There are four or five threads of story woven together with one continually reading to see what happens in the end. And the climax.. the end.. nothing. One can imagine what one will but I *personally* feel that Jonathan Raban owes me another 100 pages of writing and a true conclusion to the story line and all the mini-plots. Thank goodness for libraries because if I had bought this book, I would have thrown it in the garbage in disappointment. Needless to say, I was unable to find an e-mail address for Mr. Raban. Had I done so, I could have asked him why he got writers block at the "end" of the book.

you can't fool mother nature.......2007-05-13

I just finished this book, and have the usual frustrations mentioned by other reviewers. I actually did find the characters interesting, but the end of the book happens so suddenly that one's first thought is - what happened? did he get tired of writing or something? Instead I think it's sort of a heavy handed symbolic gesture, after all the surveillance occuring in this book, not just by the government but also by most of the characters, it turns out that it's meaningless, in light of the catastrophe occuring at the end of the book.

i can't recommend it higher than three stars, but it does make one ruminate over the ideas and theories presented, all of which is unsettling (no pun intended considering how the book ends!)

Incoherent blatherings.......2007-05-08

SURVEILLANCE (2006) is nothing of the kind... it is nonsensical unrelated blatherings. What is supposed to be near-future fiction about what could happen if government nosiness is allowed to run amok - turns out to be just another "Global Warming" scare tactic book... I suppose the author just put it out to appease his liberal buddies with oneupmanship in several "doom and gloom" categories. Anyone who believes that in the next few years, Seattle will need to outlaw watering the grass, or there will be no more snowfall in Washington state mountains because of "climate change", is a "few bricks short of a full load"... the text reminds me of the hour-long ramblings of a high school English teacher I was forced to endure in the 70's... only worse.

Average customer rating: Coaching advise from athletic coaches Overcome Adversity Inspiration good A great inspirational source

How to Succeed in the Game of Life: 34 Interviews with the World's Greatest Coaches Christian Klemash Manufacturer: Andrews McMeel Publishing ProductGroup: Book Binding: Hardcover Success | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books General | Coaching | Sports | Subjects | Books General | Sports | Subjects | Books Look Inside Health Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books Look Inside Sports Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books Similar Items: Beyond Basketball: Coach K's Keywords for Success Leading with the Heart: Coach K's Successful Strategies for Basketball, Business, and Life Coaching Matters: Leadership and Tactics of the NFL's Ten Greatest Coaches Catch Them Being Good: Everything You Need to Know to Successfully Coach Girls The Man Watching: A Biography of Anson Dorrance, the Unlikely Architect of the Greatest College Sports Dynasty Ever ASIN: 0740760653

Book Description

What would Super Bowl Champ Tony Dungy say is the most critical quality for a person to be successful? Would his advice differ from 4-time World Series winner Joe Torre's? What would each say to a young person just starting out in pursuit of their dreams? What is the best advice they were ever given?

Now you can find out! Author Christian Klemash has written How to Succeed in the Game of Life: 34 Interviews with the World's Greatest Coaches. It took the author more than three years of research, persistence, and original interviews, but now he's ready to pass on the best advice you'll ever get. Klemash gives fans a once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn valuable life lessons from the most famous, intelligent, and victorious coaches ever. The legends span the sports world, from 16-time NBA Champion Red Auerbach, to 10-time NCAA Champion John Wooden, to nine-time Stanley Cup winner Scotty Bowman.

These coaches know how to teach top athletes about character and winning, how to manage pressure at crunch time, and how to bring out the best in their players when it matters most. How to Succeed in the Game of Life shares their insights into sports, life, and the most vital keys to sustain success.

Customer Reviews:

Coaching advise from athletic coaches.......2007-06-27

A fun read, especially if yoiu're a sports fan. I read it in search of things that would help my own ability as a coach in my company. Much of it is light stuff but the easy read makes it fun nonetheless and there are few golden nuggets laced throughout the book.

Overcome Adversity.......2007-04-12

Anyone looking for inspiration, either for their own life or to share with others, will find a gold mine of quotes here. This book isn't just for sports fans.

Inspiration.......2007-01-27

I have never read a more inspirational book in my life. Before, I never realized how much other people have struggled the way I have in life, and have actually succeeded! It was great for me to see that and to know that there are other people in the world with great adversity in their life and have come out on top due to hard work and great leadership. This book isn't for just sports fans, it's for all who are looking for great advice in the real world and need a little tap on the back saying that everything is and will be okay! This book is great for all ages and for any occupation!

good.......2007-01-18

As a coach I will use many things I found in this book. Wasn't everything it could have been but still a great read.

A great inspirational source.......2007-01-17

I purchased this book while I was searching for a "golden nugget" for a speech I was preparing for high school students. What I found was an entire gold mine of inspirational quotes and ideas! I truly enjoyed this book, and found many bits and pieces that I will share with others. I've already purchased a gift copy, and have shared mine with several others. I would highly recommend "How To Succeed In The Game of Life" to high school and college coaches, teachers, counselors, ministers, and parents....anyone who is in the business of working with young people and advising them as they navigate the difficult road to their future. There's plenty within for the "older folks" who need to be re-inspired in their own lives as well.

Average customer rating: Interesting Mix Enjoyed the book It was OK. Not what I expected. An Air Bag Killed Her? No, Just Part of One. Too many loose ends

Partner in Crime J.A. Jance Manufacturer: Avon ProductGroup: Book Binding: Mass Market Paperback General | Mystery | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books Suspense | Thrillers | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books Jance, J.A. | ( J ) | Authors, A-Z | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books General | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books Look Inside Mystery & Thriller Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books ( J ) | Authors, A-Z | Mystery & Thrillers | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books General | Mystery & Thrillers | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books General | Mystery | Mystery & Thrillers | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books Suspense | Thrillers | Mystery & Thrillers | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books Similar Items: Paradise Lost Birds of Prey: A Novel of Suspense Outlaw Mountain: A Joanna Brady Mystery Devil's Claw Breach of Duty: A J.P. Beaumont Mystery ASIN: 0380804700 Release Date: 2003-07-29

Book Description

The dead woman on a cold slab in the Arizona morgue was a talented artist recently arrived from the West Coast. The Washington State Attorney General's office thinks this investigation is too big for a small-town female law officer to handle, so they're sending Sheriff Joanna Brady some unwanted help—a seasoned detective named Beaumont. Sheriff Brady resents his intrusion, and Bisbee, Arizona, with its ghosts and memories, is the last place J.P. Beaumont wants to be. But the twisting desert road they must reluctantly travel together is leading them into a very deadly nest of rattlers. And if they hope to survive, suddenly trust is the only option they have left ...

Download Description

E-book extras: Afterword: "Roots of Mystery: Sodium Azide and Learning to Believe the Unbelievable" by J.A. Jance. Special environmental report: "It Will Kill Practically Anything": Do you drive a 1994 or newer car? If so, you're sitting just inches away from a deadly poison. A terrifying truth is buried at the juncture where lethal greed and unassailable power converge. The dead woman was an artist recently arrived from Washington State, cruelly cut down in the early stages of a promising career. Now all that remains of Rochelle Baxter lies on a cold slab in the Cochise County morgue, and Sheriff Joanna Brady knows that murder has once again infected her small desert community. But there is more to this homicide than initially meets the eye -- and more to the victim, who died while supposedly under the conscientious protection of the government. A big-city legal establishment has no faith in the abilities of a small-town sheriff, let alone a female sheriff. Instructed to swallow her indignation, Joanna awaits the arrival of the ""help"" Washington's attorney general is sending her: the newest member of the state's Special Homicide Investigation team -- a man named Beaumont. Bisbee, Arizona, is the last place J.P. Beaumont wants to be. The ghosts of a painful past are too numerous there, and his reluctant ""partner,"" Sheriff Brady, resents his intrusion and cannot help but make her feelings known. But the road they are forced to travel together is taking some unexpected turns, running two dedicated servants of the law headfirst into the impenetrable stone walls of a shocking conspiracy of silence. For Brady and Beaumont's hunt is disturbing a very deadly nest of rattlers, and suddenly trust is the only option they have. On their own in the Arizona desert, they know death can be cold and quick. And nobody is watching their backs here ... they'll have to watch each other's.

Customer Reviews:

Interesting Mix.......2006-02-11

I picked up Partner in Crime CDs from the local library. I've seen Jance's name about for sometime (she takes up over a shelf at the local bookstore), and I'm trying to get into the habit of listening to books during my commute. On that note, I checked out the CDs and gave them a whirl.

To start with, the readings of Debra Monk and Cotter Smith were phenomenal. They were able to bring me into the story and the views of the characters. The tones of their voices depict the characters accurately. Monk, reading the 3rd-person sections, handled the challenge of the changing tones from the subjective voice of Joanna Brady to the more objective description well, switching her tone from one to another easily, making each distinct, though on a page they would all be a part of the same flowing text.

The story itself was engaging. The conflicts between characters were perhaps more engaging than the mystery. In fact, the end of the mystery was well telegraphed, not leaving much surprise over who was behind the incident. Even when the cause of the information leak on the witness protection program is traced back to the Washington State Attorney General's family, it did not provide a satisfying end to the mystery. It was not disappointing. The mystery was just not the exciting part of the book.

Perhaps the most engaging part of the story was the interactions between Beaumont and Brady. As Beaumont's history with Anne Rowland Corley and how it relates to Coshise County plays out, a second plot behind the primary plays out. I do not know if Jance was rehashing and building on story from previous Beaumont novels. Either way, the development of his scarring and healing from his relationship with Anne (and his developing relationship with Joanne) kept my rapt attention.

I am sure I could have started with a better book to get a sample of Jance's work. One that would give me either Brady or Beaumont, but for a mixture of two primary characters, I enjoyed it. It felt balanced, and I would recommend it to others looking for something light and quick to ready.

Enjoyed the book.......2005-08-30

When I first obtained Partners in Crime by J.A. Jance, I had no idea the story was taking place in Bisbee, in Cochise Co., Arizona, which only added delight to my reading enjoyment. I lived in Sierra Vista which is also in Cochise Co. a few years ago, and I must say the descriptions were pretty much to the location. For me it was a step back in time. Which made it a 5 star for me.

I came in contact with sodium azide when my vehicle ran into a brick wall, which was a choking situation. Maybe it will serve a purpose if everyone would contact their state representatives about how the substance is being left in discarded vehicles.

It was refreshing to find a female sheriff in Bisbee, AZ, it being a macho town like so many of the border towns. However Sheriff Joanna Brady does very well being a newcomer investigating a murdered Rochelle, who was in the witness protection program; a second murder, and having to share the investigation with Beaumont.
I enjoyed the mystery; it was a quick read with wonderful memories for me.

It was OK. Not what I expected........2005-05-26

I expected suspense. Of course, if you've read the book you know there's precious little suspense to be found. In fact, you could almost say there was none at all.

I've come away from this book with the feeling that it was more about Model Trains and Family Pets than anything resembling crime and/or suspense. I'm not sure who was more bored plodding through this tale, me or (it would seem) Joanna Brady.

The denouement was obviously thrown together in a caffiene-free marathon writing session 3 hours before the publishers' deadline. Good enough that you won't want your money back, unless you have high expectations, in which case - keep the reciept.

Keep in mind that this book is part of a series, and that I haven't read the lead-ins. In any case, I believe books should be able stand on their own, not just as chapters of a larger series. This one does not.

An Air Bag Killed Her? No, Just Part of One........2005-03-22

When I had the chance meeting of J.A. Jance years ago in a bookstore in Palm Desert, California, she had told me she was in the process of creating a new series, which came to be known as the Sheriff Joanna Brady series. She had felt she needed a break from her J.P. Beaumont detective series. Over a decade later, she has the two characters meet in her latest novel, Partner in Crime.

Partner in Crime is set in Bisbee, Arizona, the home of Sheriff Joanna Brady. A newcomer to town, Rochelle Baxter, is getting ready to have her first ever art exhibit. Unfortunately, the day before the show Rochelle is poisoned with a chemical known as sodium azide. This compound has no taste, no smell, is hard to trace, and is readily available (sounds like the perfect murder weapon to me!). And so, the hunt for the killer begins. But when the next of kin notifications are taking place, Sheriff Brady discovers that Rochelle Baxter is really Latisha Wall, a lady placed in Bisbee by the Washington State Attorney General's office's witness protection program. And the tale twists into a mystery involving two states, two law enforcement officers used to being in charge, and two very strong personalities.

Sheriff Brady has her hands full trying to find the killer, when J.P. Beaumont arrives in town to "observe the investigation". Seems Beau is now with the Washington State's S.H.I.T. (Special Homicide Investigative Team) and since their witness is now dead, they feel a need to see who really killed her.

Sheriff Brady is not too happy having a "watch dog" at her heels while she and her detectives are trying to solve this crime. Not only does she have to deal with Beau, but she also has to handle the never ending problems that go with being a sheriff: budget cuts, Marliss Shackleford (the annoying newspaper columnist who has a grudge against her), balancing work and home, among other things.

I have to admit the joining of these two characters was a bit confusing. Only a handful of supporting characters originated in Seattle with the majority of them hailing from Bisbee. It was almost like urbanite Beaumont was tossed into the middle of the wild, wild west complete with a chase on horseback! A bit on the strange side for Jance, but nevertheless, it was still enjoyable.

We're again given glimpses into the lives of Jenny (Joanna's daughter), Butch (Joanna's husband), Frank Montoya, Jaime Carbajal, and a few others typically in the Brady series-supporting cast. We're given a very brief glimpse into Beau's life, with a few pages on new love interest, Naomi Pepper and on his working relationship with his supervisor, Harry I. Ball (now that was funny!). But to me, it was completely unnecessary unless Jance is planning something in the future and is laying the groundwork for the next book. The focus could have centered on Bisbee and the characters there with only mentions of the Seattle crew.

The story line was great and the character development was her usual standard of excellence. The hardest part while reading was the switching back and forth of writing style. Jance wrote the Beaumont series in a first person writing style, while the Brady series is in the third person style. So which did she choose for Partner in Crime? She combined them, thus switching back and forth depending on which character she was currently focusing. This sometimes resulted in a shaking of the head to keep from jumping the track.

The part of the book that made me really think was the Author's Note in the back of the book. Jance tells her reading audience that she first heard about sodium azide while reading her alumni magazine from the University of Arizona. It seems this deadly chemical is readily available and the public is unaware of the potential hazards. Sodium azide is used to inflate air bags found in vehicles from about 1995 on. Once it ignites an air bag, the substance becomes "a harmless nitrogen based gas." However, how many vehicles are in junkyards with air bags still intact and these canisters with a deadly compound sitting right there? And no one regulates this chemical and anyone can obtain it easily. Now that's a scary thought! Maybe a letter to your legislative representatives is in order, before murders are committed using this lethal compound. At least that's the suggestion of Jance.

Thanks for reading; I'm off to write my congressman...

Too many loose ends.......2005-01-13

Although the book is well written and you will learn some interesting things about your car's airbags. The book has too many loose ends and a love story that started from nowhere. I didn't like that love story because supposedly Joanna loved her husband and daughter and I don't think that in less than three days you will drop your life for a person you will never see again.

Albeit this is my first J.A. J's book and I think the answers to the next questions must be in another book. When you write a book and you tuck some questions, you must give the answers although they are in another book, so when you'll finish the book you will see that something is missing:

What happened to Joanna's first husband?
Why did JP Beaumont's second wife tried to kill him?
What happened with Jack Brampton's body?
And I have many more questions.

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