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In the tradition of such classics as My Ántonia and There Will Be Blood , Anna Keesey's Little Century is a resonant and moving debut novel by a writer of confident gifts. Orphaned after the death of her mother, eighteen-year-old Esther Chambers heads west in search of her only living relative. In the lawless frontier town of Century, Oregon, she's met by her distant cousin, a laconic cattle rancher named Ferris Pickett. Pick leads her to a tiny cabin by a small lake called Half-a-Mind, and there she begins her new life as a homesteader. If she can hold out for five years, the land will join Pick's already impressive spread. But Esther discovers that this town on the edge of civilization is in the midst of a range war. There's plenty of land, but somehow it is not enough for the ranchers--it's cattle against sheep, with water at a premium. In this charged climate, small incidents of violence swiftly escalate, and Esther finds her sympathies divided between her cousin and a sheepherder named Ben Cruff, a sworn enemy of the cattle ranchers. As her feelings for Ben and for her land grow, she begins to see she can't be loyal to both. Little Century maps our country's cutthroat legacy of dispossession and greed, even as it celebrates the ecstatic visions of what America could become. | Historical Fiction;Fiction;Romance |
This volume contains the great works of fiction as well as the complete diaries and thus gives the reader considrable insight into the mind of this strange and powerful man. | Fiction;Fantasy |
War torn Rhodesia 1976. As the last brave bastion of good colonial White supremacy battles the evil might of bad communist backed Black supremacists over the right to turn a breadbasket into a basket case - the finest police force in the world, the British South Africa Police, are given an offer they should have refused ... namely - ME!Soon realising their terrible mistake, those in the know send L'Enfant Terrible into the sinister depths of the African outback in the hope his contract would be rapidly cancelled by friends and foes alike.Fully loaded with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder accentuating fifty shifty grey cells, he seeks fame and fortune, wine and women - all for a song and dance - whilst becoming a womanising hustler, liar, drunkard, gambler and thief. Patrol Officer Greenberg - long finger of the law - cause cèlèbre of Rhodesia.A rather unhinged memoir. Fully illustrated. | null |
Outrageous Acts and Everyday Rebellions—a phenomenal success that sold nearly half a million copies since its original publication in 1983—is Gloria Steinem's most diverse and timeless collection of essays. Both male and female readers have acclaimed it as a witty, warm, and life-changing view of the world—"as if women mattered." Steinem's truly personal writing is here, from the humorous exposé "I Was a Playboy Bunny" to the moving tribute to her mother "Ruth's Song (Because She Could Not Sing It)" to prescient essays on female genital mutilation and the difference between erotica and pornography. The satirical and hilarious "If Men Could Menstruate" alone is worth the price of admission.This second edition features a new preface by the author and added notes on classic essays. | Nonfiction |
1845. New York City forms its first police force. The great potato famine hits Ireland. These two seemingly disparate events will change New York City. Forever. Timothy Wilde tends bar near the Exchange, fantasizing about the day he has enough money to win the girl of his dreams. But when his dreams literally incinerate in a fire devastating downtown Manhattan, he finds himself disfigured, unemployed, and homeless. His older brother obtains Timothy a job in the newly minted NYPD, but he is highly skeptical of this new "police force." And he is less than thrilled that his new beat is the notoriously down-and-out Sixth Ward - at the border of Five Points, the world's most notorious slum. One night while making his rounds, Wilde literally runs into a little slip of a girl - a girl not more than ten years old - dashing through the dark in her nightshirt... covered head to toe in blood. Timothy knows he should take the girl to the House of Refuge, yet he can't bring himself to abandon her. Instead, he takes her home, where she spins wild stories, claiming that dozens of bodies are buried in the forest north of 23rd Street. Timothy isn't sure whether to believe her or not, but, as the truth unfolds, the reluctant copper star finds himself engaged in a battle for justice that nearly costs him his brother, his romantic obsession, and his own life. | Historical Fiction;Mystery;Fiction |
A happily married man who has an unhealthy addiction to loud music falls asleep in his study one night and wakes up to find his wife, child and maid murdered. He is arrested by the police and remanded in a prison at the extreme horn of the country waiting for a trial date to come. but because of the frighteningly corrupt legal and judicial system he is forgotten till Islamic militants break into the prison and set him free. Now he is on the run from the police and the extremely wealthy and powerful people who see his freedom as a threat and will do all to stop him. It is a race against time to find those responsible for his wife and child's death before the police and pursuers catch up with him | null |
Twenty-two-year-old Satou, an unemployed, reclusive conspiracy theorist living in Tokyo, meets a mysterious girl who tries to cure him of his antisocial, or "hikikomori," ways. | Fiction;Romance |
Following the Bosnian War and his immigration to the U.S., Serbian refugee Milenko Milanovic would awaken from horrifying dreams-vestiges of his eight-month imprisonment in the Bosnian war camp at Visoko. For years, Milenko's memories remained suppressed, but his experiences lived on in the loose-leaf diary he had kept hidden in the lining of his jacket. After his release, he compiled these notes into the book that would become Slow Dying, a harrowing volume that details his capture and subsequent internment-the starvation, beatings and death. This fourth edition presents his diary in English for the first time, accompanied by contributions from his fellow prisoners and Milenko's own reflections on his imprisonment and life as a refugee. It offers a poignant and compelling story of personal survival during one of the most brutal conflicts in recent history. | null |
"I was sixteen the first time my grandmother died. . . ."Sarah Parsons has never seen Amber House, the grand Maryland estate that's been in her family for three centuries. She's never walked its hedge maze nor found its secret chambers; she's never glimpsed the shades that haunt it, nor hunted for the lost diamonds in its walls.But after her grandmother passes away, Sarah and her friend Jackson decide to search for the diamonds--and the House comes alive. She discovers that she can see visions of the House's past, like the eighteenth-century sea captain who hid the jewels, or the glamorous great-grandmother driven mad by grief. Sarah grows closer to both Jackson and a young man named Richard Hathaway, whose family histories are each deeply entwined with her own. But when her ghostly visions start to threaten the person she holds most dear, Sarah must do everything she can to get to the bottom of the House's secrets, and stop the course of history before it is cemented forever. | Young Adult;Fantasy;Mystery;Romance |
On February 20, 2003, the deadliest rock concert in U.S. history took place at a roadhouse called The Station in West Warwick, Rhode Island. That night, in the few minutes it takes to play a hard-rock standard, the fate of many of the unsuspecting nightclub patrons was determined with awful certainty. The blaze was ignited when pyrotechnics set off by Great White, a 1980s heavy-metal band, lit flammable polyurethane "egg crate" foam sound insulation on the club's walls. In less than 10 minutes, 96 people were dead and 200 more were injured, many catastrophically. The final death toll topped out, three months later, at the eerily unlikely round number of 100.The story of the fire, its causes, and its legal and human aftermath is one of lives put at risk by petty economic decisions—by a band, club owners, promoters, building inspectors, and product manufacturers. Any one of those decisions, made differently, might have averted the tragedy. Together, however, they reached a fatal critical mass.Killer Show is the first comprehensive exploration of the chain of events leading up to the fire, the conflagration itself, and the painstaking search for evidence to hold the guilty to account and obtain justice for the victims. Anyone who has entered an entertainment venue and wondered, "Could I get out of here in a hurry?" will identify with concertgoers at The Station. Fans of disaster nonfiction and forensic thrillers will find ample elements of both genres in Killer Show. | Nonfiction |
Written by Venerable María de Jesús de Agreda, a 17th century Spanish nun, after years of private revelations from God the Father and Most Holy Mary, Mística Ciudad de Dios (The Mystical City of God) is a marvelous and life-changing narrative of most wonderful and hidden mysteries about the life of Most Holy Mary and his Son Jesus Our Lord that has been enthralling readers for centuries.Composed of the Conception, Incarnation, Transfixion and Coronation, this magnificent narrative takes the reader through the various stages of the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, plus it reveals all sorts of facts about our entire salvation history.Pope Innocent XI and Pope Alexander VIII in 1690 expressly declared that the City of God may be read by all the faithful. Pope Clement XI and Benedict XIV gave like decisions. | Nonfiction |
'Professor Henry Tomlinson, accredited member of the National Microbiologists Association, author of the best seller 'The Futility of Sheep', widower, father of twins, sat on the chair in his ransacked study and for the first time in his life, asked himself if he was losing his mind.' There are three things which can irrevocably change a man's life - the death of a loved one, a moment of revelation and saying the wrong thing at precisely the wrong time. Unfortunately for Professor Henry Tomlinson, he has recently experienced all three. And it's those experiences which threaten to push him over the edge. Is his past really key to understanding his present, or is it yet another trick of his mind? 'Existence Is Futile', the debut novel from Scott Andrews, tells the story of one man's struggle to keep his head whilst he tries to come to terms with his own reality. 'Existence Is Futile' aspires to address a number of existential questions, is brave enough to attempt jokes which don't include toilets and inclusive enough to include a ninja. That's right. A ninja. | null |
Seventeen-year-old Allie Anderson's telekinetic powers are anything but useful--she can't bring her father back, can't stop her mother's downward spiral into alcohol, and can't keep her from falling in love with Ethan Bradley. Loving Ethan is easy, but it comes with a hefty price: Ethan is prohibited by his people from interacting with mortals--because he isn't mortal himself. When Allie and Ethan's love is discovered, there's someone who will do anything to keep them apart. If Allie can't learn to control her powers and fight to save Ethan, this dark entity will make every attempt to stop her beating heart. And if that happens, not even the energy of an immortal can bring her back. | Young Adult;Romance |
A hero to millions who adored his portrayals of Robin Hood and Fletcher Christian, Errol Flynn (1909-59) lived a life that far surpassed any adventure he ever acted out on screen: exotic travels, criminal exploits, passionate love affairs, violent confrontations, scandals, and international fame. In this highly readable, witty and colourful autobiography, reissued by Aurum Press in B-format using the original uncensored text, Flynn reveals himself and his remarkable life as he did nowhere else. | Nonfiction |
The realm of Queen Arianna is a kingdom of beauty and peace. She rules with gentility, love and a velvet glove, beloved by all her people. Amidst the tranquility of her reign there is a breed of men, warriors and pirates, knights and knaves, that engage in back-alley duels. These are the "Rogue Blades." They battle for the entertainment of the masses and the coins that they throw. Her subjects, bored by the peaceful era of Arianna, crave the clashing of weapons, the ringing of swords, and the taking of lives. Disturbed by the violent blood sport that is staining her reign, the Queen has ordered her Royal Guard to put an end to these contests. In the dueling world, Dave the Knave, self-proclaimed Greatest Swordsman That Has Ever Lived, hears about the growing fame of Sir James the Great Knight, seconded by the faithful Squire Paul. Dave believes that they are on a collison course, headed for a battle of epic proportions. Will they meet before the Royal Guard brings an end to the street duels? Or is there something even more ominous in store for everyone? | null |
School teacher and advocate of abused children Hannah Cassidy invades a private retreat in the N. Nevada wilderness. Ignoring posted No Trespassing signs and the property's angry owner, she dismisses his threats and demands that he reveal her missing brother's location.Nicholas Benteen, ex-mercenary and former CIA covert operative, assumes she is yet another adversary intent on exacting lethal revenge for his past deeds. He will fight to the death to protect the sanctuary he has created for himself and those from his past he has vowed to safeguard. Even as Hannah penetrates Nicholas's isolation and melts the ice that encases his weary heart, she is seduced by the sensual, battle scarred veteran and the dark secrets of his past. | Romance;Contemporary;Fiction |
[Cambridge English Readers Level 4]Award-winning original fiction for learners of English. At seven levels, from Starter to Advanced, this impressive selection of carefully graded readers offers exciting reading for every student's capabilities. Is it coincidence or is he losing his mind? While researching a new programme, John, a successful television producer, comes across a story about a ghostly hitch-hiker. Soon he realises that the story of the Lady in White bears many similarities to part of his own life. Returning to London from a holiday in Ireland, John begins to ask himself some uncomfortable questions. Paperback-only version. Also available with Audio CDs including complete text recordings from the book. | Mystery |
The most important documents of the United States of America are collected in this easy-to-read volume, which includes the Constitution of the United States of America, with all of the Amendments; The Declaration of Independence; the Articles of Confederation, and an appendix containing a list of the states by date of admission to the Union. Every citizen of the United States, student of history anywhere in the world, or anyone interested in understanding who we are as a nation should have and study a copy of these works. | Nonfiction |
"Very enjoyable crime caper crossing Italy and France and ending back in the US. Great central character and plenty of twists and turns." —thebookbag.co.ukA.R. “Ab Wins” Yoba’s debut novel, They Call Me...Montey Greene, centers around a man raised in a notorious Brooklyn public housing project who inadvertently thwarts the kidnapping of a reputed drug kingpin’s daughter while vacationing in Milan, Italy, thereby throwing a monkey wrench in the plans of a clandestine agency that has been secretly recruiting him. This is the first book in A.R. Yoba’s Montey Greene suspense thriller book series and falls under the “Identity Crisis Trilogy”. The second and third books are Get...Montey Greene and Farewell...Montey Greene.All he wanted was to buy a pair of shoes when he walked into that high end women’s boutique on Via Della Spiga and met the beautiful Colombian woman named Alejandra Lasprilla. She knew just the right pair she said. Maybe they would help patch things up between him and his soon to be ex-wife Patricia back home in the States. Maybe he could see his two kids again on a regular. Then those three thugs walked in. Locked the door. Mistook Montey Greene for just a tourist. A mark. Bad mistake. | null |
She realized that she spent most of her life living in distortions and a lie painted by the spirit of denial while pursuing things of this world. With eyes opened to the reality of spiritual warfare and that we do not wrestle with flesh and blood, she discovered that she had built a fortress that not only isolated her, but also housed the devil. | null |
We all have a darker side. Nobody knows this better than Eva Mason. Her ancestors were hungry for ultimate power, and now she and her friends must pay the price for that greed. Can you imagine feeling as if you don't belong in your own body? Life is hard when you don't know who you truly are, or what you are capable of.Who can she trust, and who will end up betraying her?Everything was changing, even herself and she could feel the influence of the Moon Goddess pushing her to the edge of her emotions, and if she didn't maintain some sort of balance; some sort of self control, she was afraid of tipping over the edge and losing herself. And she was scared that she would like it."Do not swear by the Moon, for she changes constantly. Then your love would also change." ~ William ShakespeareNOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON!!! | Fantasy;Romance |
Esprit indépendant, assoiffé de connaissances, Karim, issu de la bourgeoisie commerçante de Kaboul, tourne très tôt le dos à son Orient natal pour s’égarer dans la jungle compétitive de l’Occident où, peu à peu, s’érode son identité originelle.A sa suite, le lecteur est entraîné, entre 1929 et 1963, du pays des Afghans au cœur des Indes sous le joug de l’Empire britannique, des pensions du Quartier latin aux dortoirs d’Ellis Island de l’Amérique du sénateur McCarthy, avant que le jeune exilé volontaire ne s’installe en Suisse. Nommé attaché d’ambassade par le Royaume d’Afghanistan, lors d’un retour à Kaboul, il tient tête aux laveurs de cerveau soviétiques. Impuissant, il assiste aux prémices du démantèlement de la monarchie afghane. Renonçant à la carrière diplomatique, il retourne en Suisse où les autorités refusent le renouvellement de son permis de séjour.Narré au rythme du conte oriental, l’ouvrage recèle de vrais bonheurs de lecture. Il s’inscrit dans la mouvance de ce que l’on appelle la littérature du métissage. | null |
An ancient, mysterious library, housing books with a secret mission, overlooks and defends the surrounding city. The Chief Librarian, a wise master, protects the Spiral Library from attacks by Kal, a treacherous and eternal enemy determined to conquer it. One morning the library’s long-silent “Golden Gong” sounds. It is announced that the last two Chief Librarian successors have disappeared without a trace and a new candidate must be selected. Without a new Chief Librarian, the line of librarians will be broken and all will be defenseless. No one explains or questions this crisis except one girl, Soe. Unexpectedly she is chosen as a last-chance successor candidate. Under the shadow of anger and mistrust she is forcibly taken to the library. To be purified and prepared to serve, Soe must undergo 12 nights of trial that test her core values and strengths, while under constant attack by Kal acting in partnership with her greatest enemy. This intense training is overshadowed by her clandestine attempts to find the lost successors – her boyfriend and her twin brother. Soe has plans but life has other plans. Soe’s adventuresome spirit takes her on a wild ride, magnetizing her curiosity, dare-devil spontaneity, keen reasoning skills, and pulling her into scenes that bring out the best and worst in her. Accompany Soe as she drives a chariot pulled by “fire horses,” shifts her shape while escaping an enchanted forest, drinks potions supplied by a 200-year-old young man, and discovers a great truth through love and sacrifice. The Spiral Library is a page-turning thriller full of non-stop action. Within the story’s plot is a natural wisdom that mirrors questions such as, “Are we living in an illusion?” and “Just who is the enemy?” All of this lies hidden in the most unusual library one could ever imagine. Note: This book is written neither in novel nor in play format but something in between named as play-novel. | Fiction;Fantasy |
Society Princess— and a Penniless Preacher?Felicity Kensington is preparing for the grandest wedding Pearlman, Michigan, has ever seen. True, her prospective husband is virtually a stranger. But the well–connected engineer her father hired fits all her marriage criteria. Except for one tiny flaw: it's the town's new pastor, not the wealthy engineer, who makes Felicity's heart race…Gabriel Meeks left New York to avoid high society's foolish rules. Instead, he's immediately smitten with the high–and–mighty Miss Kensington. Beneath Felicity's misplaced pride is a woman of genuine worth, if he can only help her see it. And nothing could make him happier than ensuring that her matrimony plan takes an unexpected twist! | Romance |
Caleb is a man with a singular interest in revenge. Kidnapped as a young boy and sold into slavery by a power-hungry mobster, he has thought of nothing but vengeance. For twelve years he has immersed himself in the world of pleasure slaves searching for the one man he holds ultimately responsible. Finally, the architect of his suffering has emerged with a new identity, but not a new nature. If Caleb is to get close enough to strike, he must become the very thing he abhors and kidnap a beautiful girl to train her to be all that he once was.Eighteen-year-old Olivia Ruiz has just woken up in a strange place. Blindfolded and bound, there is only a calm male voice to welcome her. His name is Caleb, though he demands to be called Master. Olivia is young, beautiful, naïve and willful to a fault. She has a dark sensuality that cannot be hidden or denied, though she tries to accomplish both. Although she is frightened by the strong, sadistic, and arrogant man who holds her prisoner, what keeps Olivia awake in the dark is her unwelcome attraction to him.WARNING: This book contains very disturbing situations, dubious consent, strong language, and graphic violence. | Romance;Contemporary |
Fragile Words is a collection 29 verses and short stories written by author, Luke Benjamen Kuhns. Know for his two previous works: The Untold Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Sherlock Holmes & The Case of the Crystal Blue Bottle, Luke steps outside the world of Sherlock Holmes and presents these 29 original pieces that delve into friendship and love, pain and loss, and humour and horror. Each and every tale presented holds a special place for Luke and he is thrilled to release his “Fragile Words” to you. | null |
Imagine you are in the kind of calm, tranquil, altered-consciousness state people aspire to when they meditate. Imagine you feel no tension or stress whatsoever, neither in mind, body, or spirit. Your entire psyche is enveloped in peace and comfort.Nothing bothers you.Outside noises are meaningless. Time is meaningless. You move through life with complete serenity, utterly unperturbed by whatever beings and sounds exist around you.Here is the good news: if your son or daughter is autistic, that is where they live, in that beautiful, peaceful, totally comfortable world. Nothing bothers them; nothing causes them pain or disrupts their contentment—until you or someone else intrudes on their private space.John Hall's son lives there. Even when John's son is pushed or pulled out of his altered state of consciousness, he avoids connecting with his father, his mother, his sister, and everyone else. Unless someone interacts with him in his face every moment, John's son retreats into his private world where he is perfectly happy, completely safe, and thoroughly comfortable.His father and the book's author, John Hall knows exactly how he feels.He used to live there, too.In Am I Still Autistic?: How a Low-Functioning, Slightly Retarded Toddler Became CEO of a Multi-Million Dollar National Corporation, John chronicles how he overcame autism, what it was like, the pain of moving from his autistic state to the mainstream world, things he had to learn that most people take for granted, and what he was able to accomplish against all odds. John was able to eventually make friends, graduate from high school, put himself through college, earn his MBA, start a successful company, and start a family!Overcoming autism was only part of his battle though. John writes about how many of his most significant life challenges began after he began to emerge from his autistic shell - some which lingered long into John's adult life, despite his many successes. But when John's own son was diagnosed with autism in 2007, John's life was shattered. He will never forget how he sobbed as his son's neurologist handed down his son's diagnosis. At that moment, John experienced the same sense of hopelessness that most parents do when they receive such a diagnosis. And there was so much more. He immediately thought of the hurt, pain, loneliness he experienced growing up, how hard it was to learn how to look at people and to communicate with them, how scary it all was, and how the entire experience follows him to this day. John was heart-broken that his son would be relegated to have the same experiences.For years, John could hardly say the word autistic when talking about my son. He was not ashamed of his beautiful boy in anyway. John just couldn't hear himself say the word, "autistic" in the same sentence as his little boy's name. John was in denial. Writing this book has allowed him to face his son's diagnosis head on and has restored his hope. With this book, John hopes to provide inspiration to so many others who have been affected by autism - parents, educators, therapists, and loved ones of those with autism. Autism does not have to be a life sentence. Love, persistence, and support make all the difference in the world. It is why John is who he is today and why he knows his son will be able to write a book about how he overcame autism one day!As science seeks to develop a “cure” for autism, John seeks to expand autism awareness and hope. Rather than highlighting autism symptoms and treatment options, John's book puts a human face on the disorder. Am I Still Autistic? provides a unique perspective on autism – told by someone who has experienced it firsthand.Whether you are a parent of an autistic or special-needs child, a teacher, therapist, or family member, this book will provide fresh context on what it is like to be autistic and how anything is possible. Even if you are not affected by autism, this book will move and inspire you! | null |
Father Joseph is a devout priest with a sad but inspirational backstory living in Rome when he stumbles upon a well guarded ancient scroll shrouded in secrecy at the Vatican. It was written, he learns, over two thousand years ago by a man believed by a select few to have been a mysterious thirteenth apostle of Christ. When the disturbing prophecies of the scroll are revealed to Father Joseph he is certain the end of days for man is here and he is compelled to embark upon a journey around the world on a quest to save the soul of mankind. He is unaware that Glenn, an angel from the highest order of heaven, has already descended to earth to determine whether man has finally and completely emptied his soul of purity of heart of his own free will. If so, man's demise is imminent. Glenn's work is interrupted when the underworld sends Falene to place a well thought out, diabolical wager with the angel; find the last soul on earth with the purest of heart then turn him or her over to her to be tested. In no other way could the true resolve of mankind be measured. Glenn accepts the bet. If he loses, then all of humanity will be turned over to hell, the abode of the devils where the wicked dwell. When the chosen one is selected as the ultimate representative for all and stripped to his or her core and put to tests a hero would beg to be spared, can he or she rise up against evil in it's most intimidating form to prove that goodness still exists within the heart of mankind? The 13th Apostle begs readers to consider whether mankind is inherently good or evil and where they fall along that often very fine line. The 13th Apostle is the first installment of a trilogy series. Divine Providence, the sequel to The 13th Apostle is an intense and powerful continuation of this story, and is also available on Amazon.com | null |
In response to the need for increased awareness on this planet, these remarkable, inspiring messages come from Higher intelligences, out of love and concern for planet Earth. The guidance covers everything from natural healing to environmental disasters and their solutions, from self-awareness to conscious child rearing. There are shocking revelations about worldwide corruption in government, future predictions, and Earth changes. The need of the hour is to focus on SURVIVAL of our beloved planet Earth through awareness, cooperation and TRUTH. Based on the book, Orion Transmissions Prophecy. | null |
Wilson grew up watching members of his family die of alcoholism, child abuse, suicide, and violence. Like many others, he blamed all the problems on "white people."Beth Ward grew up in a middle-class home in the suburbs. Raised in a politically left family, she also believed that all problems on the reservation originated with cruel treatment by settlers and the stealing of land. Meeting Wilson, her first close experience with a tribal member, she stepped out of the comfort of suburban life into a whole new, frightening world.After almost ten years of living with Wilson's alcoholism and the terrible dangers that came with it, they both came to realize that individual behavior and personal decisions were at the root of a man's troubles, including their own. Further, corrupt tribal government, dishonest federal Indian policy, and the controlling reservation system had more to do with the current despair in his community than what had happened 150 years ago.Here is the plain truth in the eyes of one family, in the hope that at least some of the dying-physical, emotional, and spiritual-may be recognized and prevented.What cannot be denied is that a large number of Native Americans are dying from alcoholism, drug abuse, suicide, and violence. Popular belief is that the white culture and its past sins are to blame. However, tribal government as it behaves today, coupled with current federal Indian policy, may have more to do with the present condition.Unfortunately, persistent public misconceptions about Indian Country, misconceptions sometimes promoted by tribal government and others enjoying unaudited money and power, have worked to keep the situation just as it is. | Nonfiction |
For Tatum, love has always been something to keep at a distance. It was easier and it was safer. As an independent young woman she is content to enjoy a life split casually between friends and her career. Her life changes one night when by chance she meets the mysterious Cole and finds herself irresistibly drawn to him. Almost instantly he leaves a lingering impression on her that is so perfect it's terrifying. Soon she isn’t sure what she wants and finds it impossible to get him off her mind. It’s everything about him. It’s the scent of him that lingers, the closeness of his breath, the slightest touch of his skin and the blue of his eyes that makes her very soul ache. The last thing she wants is to admit to love and the inevitable complications that come with it. But it isn’t long before her inability to reconcile what her heart wants sends her life spiraling out of her control and she becomes trapped in a dance of giving in and running away.Before two people can share their lives, they need to face their past. | Romance |
Signed by the Author | null |
Something strange is brewingat the Comeback CaféA grandfather’s song has turned a diner into hallowed ground. A contrary girl with a gypsy heart feels the tug of home. And a truck driver named Jedidiah keeps his foot on the gas, ready to sweep you into an unforgettable story of belonging and grace.It’s the 1960s Midwest, and Ellee Crumb wants to change the world, starting with her mother, but she’s having trouble even getting her teachers to know her real name. So Ellee sits at the Comeback, her broken heart lying there on a table, when a three-armed waitress and a quirky stranger show up and hand her back the pieces.An affecting tale, My Mother’s Wish will remind you of the power of grand hopes and effect of impossible expectations. You’ll witness the influence every life has on another, and you’ll find new reasons to believe in the comfort and joy in an everyday, American version of the story of Christmas: being known and loved, just as you are.From the Hardcover edition. | Fiction |
They say "third time's the charm", and for sixteen-year-old Brooke Day, they had better be right. She’s been here before, twice in fact, and an evil demon-witch wants her dead a third time.When Brooke is forced to leave Boston for the small town of Deadwich, she thinks her life is over. Before long, her new friends start acting strange—downright evil. But worse than that, nightmares she’s had her whole life become reality.Enter Marcus Knight; popular, hot, and the only person Brooke can trust. Not to mention, they’ve shared the same nightmares.With the discovery of an ancient Celtic amulet, Brooke and Marcus unravel the secrets of her past, which reveals the key to her future.As the equinox approaches:Darkness and light merge for the first time in a century.Soul-mates reunite.Magic awakens. | Romance;Young Adult;Fantasy |
From Book 1:
Amid the bloody battlefields of Britain, Merlin is marked for greatness.
M.K. Hume tells the story of Myrddion Merlinus from birth to boyhood, as he attempts to surpass evil and corruption to fulfil his destiny. The Prophecy Trilogy is the perfect read for fans of Justin Hill and Anthony Riches.
'Hume deftly navigates the Arthurian legends, populating them with likable and despicable characters, and casting them in a fully realized historical setting' - Publishers WeeklyIn the kingdom of Dyfed, Vortigern, Celtic High King of Cymru and the North, rules in relative peace. Yet his choice of wife - a Saxon queen - fuels tension between the Saxon and Celtic tribes. In the town of Segontium, a young boy is raised by his grandmother. The product of a brutal rape, he is spurned by his mother as a demon child. The boy is Myrddion - prince of the Deceangli and apprentice to a skilled healer. Far away, Vortigern oversees the resurrection of ancient Dinas Emrys. According to prophecy, the king will perish if the fort does not rise again. But the foundations refuse to hold and Vortigern needs the blood of a demon seed - a human sacrifice - to make the towers stand firm. Myrddion's life is in danger. Yet the child has a prophecy of his own and a greater destiny to fulfil...
What readers are saying about Prophecy: Clash of Kings:
'An exciting and thrilling story about Celtic life, of evil and power, and tribal wars that rule this Kingdom of the Celts. A very engrossing and entertaining tale from an author worthy following' 'A captivating start to the Merlin Legend''Excellent and well worth reading. The narrative carries you along at pace and the plot is action-packed, never giving you a moments pause from either action of emotional content' | Fantasy;Historical Fiction;Fiction |
The New Diary is about a completely modern concept of journal writing. It has little to do with the rigid daily calendar diary you may have kept as a child or the factual travelogue you wrote to recall the Grand Canyon. Instead, it is a tool for tapping the full power of your inner resources.The New Diary is as much for those who already keep a journal as it is for those who have never kept one. It does not tell you the "right" way to keep a diary; rather, it offers numerous possibilities for using the diary to achieve your own purposes. It is a place for you to clarify goals, visualize the future, and focus your engergies; a means of freeing your intuition and imagination; a workbook for exploring your dreams, your past, and your present life.It is for everyone seeking concrete methods for dealing with personal problems. It is for women and men interested in achieving self-reliance and inner liberation, for artists and writers seeking new techniques for overcoming blocks to creativity. | Nonfiction |
David's urban routine is interrupted by an unexpected moment of thievery and he is instantly obsessed with the excitement it unleashes. With his colleague, he embarks on a mission to steal from the city that has stolen much of his life.They become entangled in a web of compulsion and their lust for corruption branches out to grip every aspect of their tedious lives, driving them to adrenalin inducing highs, but only fuelling their need for further crime. Can they control their addiction before it controls them? | Fiction;Mystery |
What if Robin Hood wasn't the man you thought him to be—what if he wasn't a man at all?Robin of Locksley is young, headstrong, and about to receive the worst birthday present of her life. Still struggling to define herself in a society that believes women are fit for little more than governing a household and bearing children, she balks at her father's plans for her future, but the consequences of her rebellion prove deadly. Hunted by both her father and the Sheriff, Robin is forced to hide her identity and seek refuge as an outlaw in Sherwood Forest.Disguised as a lad for protection, Robin maintains a careful isolation from the world around her...until she chances upon a young boy being beaten to death by the Sheriff's soldiers. Her rescue of the youth marks the beginning of her leadership in Sherwood forest and of the unfortunates who seek refuge therein. Robin's endeavors to provide a life of honor and purpose for her people while aiding the land's downtrodden win her high esteem, but enrage the Sheriff of Nottingham, who plots a deadly fate for her and her band.As the Sheriff's traps close in around her and assassins seek to bring her down, Robin must risk losing love, leadership, and life if she is to save her people and fulfill her destiny as one of history's greatest heroes.Alive with adventure and danger, sword fights and heists, hatred and love, Robin: Lady of Legend is the never-before-told tale of the girl who became Robin Hood. | Fantasy;Historical Fiction;Young Adult;Romance |
When neuroscientist Elis Davidson removed a dream from his mind and captured it inside a receptacle, an inter-dimensional tear opened to cosmic annihilation. A cast of metaphysical entities and urban misfits struggle for control over the dream’s power as reality disintegrates. Blubber Island is a psychedelic adventure into Gutter Surrealism, a dark comedy with philosophical depth and a Splatterpunk surface. | Fantasy |
Hank has always loved experimenting with new things. When his friend Thomas invites him into the Kuwaiti high school's bathroom stall to try heroin, he somehow knows it will be the mother of all new things. Once Thomas pricks his skin and lets the drug fill his veins, it is like love at first sight for Hank. But that first hit greatly affects his life for some time to come-addiction eats away at his soul. It impacts his personal life and marriage and even threatens his very existence. Hank wonders if there will ever be enough of the drug to fill the void. Facing blood, overdoses, and circumstances of raw fear and the unknown, he has nothing else to lose but the heroin that he craves with every breath; he lives in excruciating pain of separation from the love of it. Hank uses his pain to his advantage and realizes that simplicity, principles, and befriending himself offers far more opportunity than he could have expected. | null |
Are you looking to be rescued from the dilemmas that you face with your teenager? Planning for your child's independence will make a huge impact. This book is brimming with practical tips and insights that will show you how to move from parent to mentor. You will learn to inform, not instruct. It will guide you to move into the position of information broker and less of president and CEO.You become librarian and traffic cop, directing and facilitating your teenager's growth, ensuring safety and education- eliminating struggles and fights along the way. Your role as parent officially changes to mentor and the path to daily living gets much easier in the process. | null |
IS YOUR BUSINESS CLOSE-UP IN PERFECT FOCUS? Attracting - and maximizing - great PR opportunities for you, your idea and your organization is as much an art as it is a science if you want to sparkle in the spotlight. In this must-have book covering all aspects of today's media relations, industry experts offer "been there/done that" tips, resources and guidelines on how to: Make influential connections Become sound-bite savvy Endear yourself to reporters Survive awkward moments Use social media wisely Manage a cost-effective campaign Looking for that portal to media magic? It's right here in your hands. | null |
In his early 30s, Henry is hired by a successful software developer and college friend who has created kidnApp, a cell phone app and social network that allows people to kidnap each other for fun. The app is growing fast and making more and more money. His friend Steven (who created kidnApp), wants to groom Henry as the Mid-Atlantic regional manager with part ownership of the company, but he will need to become a seasoned kidnApper first. Steve’s pitch to Henry involves a weekend trip to LA where he shows him how extravagant his life has become. The trouble is, Henry is stuck in his conservative job, suffering from post-fiancée breakup depression, and he is too timid to be a good kidnApper. But this is an opportunity he cannot refuse. Danielle (Dani) Hardly - an aimless bartender in her mid-20s - working at a rundown nightclub. She is barely scraping by, but she is one of the first users of kidnApp in the city. She uses the app as an escape from the increasing difficult world around her, often times pushing the limits of the experience. During a botched kidnApping, she is rescued by newly recruited Henry – someone she has nothing in common with until Henry opens up to her about his less than mediocre kidnapping skills. | Fiction;Mystery |
In 1896, at the age of forty-seven, Sarah Orne Jewett published this classic novel of a female writer looking for seclusion and inspiration in the coastal town of Dunnet Landing, Maine. Returning to the women and men of small New England towns for the accompanying collection of short fiction, this remarkable volume weaves a colorful and moving tapestry of the grand complexities, joys, and beauties of life. | Fiction;Classics;Historical Fiction |
Charles Bukowski examines cats and his childhood in You Get So Alone at Times, a book of poetry that reveals his tender side. He delves into his youth to analyze its repercussions. | Classics;Fiction;Contemporary |
Trollope's comic masterpiece of plotting and backstabbing opens as the Bishop of Barchester lies on his deathbed. Soon a pitched battle breaks out over who will take power, involving, among others, the zealous reformer Dr Proudie, his fiendish wife and the unctuous schemer Obadiah Slope. Barchester Towers is one of the best-loved novels in Trollope's Chronicles of Barsetshire series, which captured nineteenth-century provincial England with wit, worldly wisdom and an unparalleled gift for characterization. It is the second book in the Chronicles of Barsetshire. | Classics;Fiction;Historical Fiction |
'The Horned God Chronicles' is a project taken up by the author to look deeper into history and mythology in a quest to understand the harmonic relationship between Society and Mother Nature. In the first book you will find some strings of thoughts although random but honest insights into the world-around-us and the universe-inside-us. These thoughts are some of the cookies that will be relished by your mind provided your mind knows to eat. Here you will get food for thought. I don't guarantee that you will like the taste because your mind may be a better cook than mine, but then you are always free to write to me at rudra@aghorasunited,com so that I can improve my writing skills. In this book, I present to you the struggles of aboriginal tribes of Indian subcontinent during the Aryan Invasion. Beginnings of a long struggle and competition between Brute Force, Rational thinking, Beliefs, Faiths and Blind Faith. I have deliberately kept it short as it will be serving as the platform for the thoughts flowing in my mind. Raghu, the son of Solankhis Clan Leader Dilipa struggles to save not only his clan but the whole humanity from Ignorance. His chance encounter with a Sage reveals a whole new world of possibilities in this 1st book of THE HORNED GOD CHRONICLES. With the wisdom of elders and his own courage, he takes the responsibility of Clan Shaman's secret on himself in a time when danger lurks all around as men who are filled with lust of Power will go to any extremes to meet their own ends. | null |
With profound emotional insight, especially into the effects of a hidden war on mothers and families at home, The Yellow Birds is a groundbreaking novel about the costs of war that is destined to become a classic."The war tried to kill us in the spring," begins this breathtaking account of friendship and loss. In Al Tafar, Iraq, twenty-one-year old Private Bartle and eighteen-year-old Private Murphy cling to life as their platoon launches a bloody battle for the city. In the endless days that follow, the two young soldiers do everything to protect each other from the forces that press in on every side: the insurgents, physical fatigue, and the mental stress that comes from constant danger. Bound together since basic training when their tough-as-nails Sergeant ordered Bartle to watch over Murphy, the two have been dropped into a war neither is prepared for. As reality begins to blur into a hazy nightmare, Murphy becomes increasingly unmoored from the world around him and Bartle takes impossible actions. With profound emotional insight, especially into the effects of a hidden war on mothers and families at home, The Yellow Birds a groundbreaking novel about the costs of war that is destined to become a classic. | Fiction;Historical Fiction;Contemporary |
Magic has no place in this world, so technically neither do I. Those around me want to see me burn—make me explode underneath their accusing glares—but I won't. There's only one person that gets me hot, and we've never spoken to each other. He's clueless to my fascination, but knows too much about secrets I've never whispered. He's different from the rest. The black sheep... Adam. I want him in my future, but my past threatens everything I've longed for. I won't run, I'll fight. I don't know what destiny has planned. I only know love can be cruel, and fate is truly wicked. | Fantasy;Young Adult;Romance |
For ages, Masters of spirituality have been teaching the simple principles of living and of being.In our modern time, it has become increasingly difficult to implement the teachings to our everyday lives. Attributes of Mastery is a revised interpretation of specific states of being that can lead us to walk and to experience the wisdom and bliss that sages and gurus have been teaching and inspiring us to follow.Blanca Beyar, a modern time Guru and healer, intimately shares her own initiations of struggle and perseverance as she walked the journey to spiritual freedom and how the attributes of mastery created a foundation for her life’s purpose. Discover the attributes that will provide the keys to your own unique Mastery! | null |
Poet, movie star, revolutionary -- Tupac Amaru Shakur was the most popular rapper in the world.No one symbolized the violence at the heart of gangsta rap more than Tupac, and he ultimately fell victim to that violence, gunned down in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas at age 25.Who did it and why? This raw no-holds-barred account discloses new information, including exclusive photo evidence, about the unsolved murder of Tupac: the failed investigation, the rap wars, the killing of Biggie Smalls, the Bloods-Crips connection, and the many possible motives leading to the murder that rocked the music world. | Nonfiction |
There is a secret society that presides over every world. This society is so powerful that it can control a nation, strike fear into the bravest of men and bring turmoil onto the most unsuspecting of victims...There is a dangerous society in Seoul that is plaguing Choi Yoori.Her world is turned upside down when she is told that she bears a strong resemblance to the “Queen of the Underworld,” a notorious Underworld crime lord who died 3 years prior—the exact same time Yoori woke up with amnesia. The dangers of this new world is crashing in on her and Yoori's only grip on stability lies with the guidance from her crime lord boss and the secrets the Queen of the Underworld hid from her powerful society.Welcome to a world where “Gods” walk amongst humans. Where the heartless and vengeful are revered like Kings and Queens—and the weak, the distracted are punished without mercy.It is a cruel world and once you’re in, the only exit is death. | Romance;Contemporary;Fantasy;Young Adult |
When Kate's life is saved by a mysterious handsome stranger she can't help but fall for him, but he is not what he appears to be. Now evil is on their trail & she is faced with the most important dilemma of her life. Can she save their souls from a 500 year old curse or will she send an angel to Hell? Either way she will lose the man she loves. | Fantasy;Romance |
One ordinary day, in one ordinary summer, Matt disfigured a childhood playmate with a cinder block. Five years later, he is released from a psychiatric facility and his circle of friends overlap with those of Hannah, the girl he maimed. He finds himself drawn to her, sadistically at first, but after Jared, an acquaintance from the hospital, covets her for his own disturbing uses, Matt struggles to protect her. Hannah's an outcast, not only because of the scars Matt gave her, but because of the ones she's given herself, too. Matt's heroin addiction and the way he exploits her body harm her in places sharp objects can't touch. Fearful that a dark secret will be disclosed, and with his addiction to heroin worsening, Matt chooses to abandon Hannah, allowing her to fall prey to Jared. Jared is a sociopath obsessed with a fantasy that Hannah can fly...a theory he plans on forcing her to test, even if the cost is her life. Vein Fire gives a startling portrait of Hannah, a young woman with Borderline Personality Disorder. This dark, voyeuristic story exposes the dysfunction she surrounds herself with as a method of self-harm. Its beautifully written passages will haunt the reader, compelling them to learn the fate of the girl who couldn't say no. Vein Fire is a stunning debut novel by Lucia Adams which editors have proclaimed, 'redefine the transgressive fiction genre'. "One of the great things about ‘Vein Fire’ is its bravery and directness. It’s a dramatic and enlightening story of drugs, abuse, and the grey-areas of society; it shines a brave light on facets of humanity that the media tends to either glamorise, satirise or completely ignore. It is also a compulsive and pacey read. Ultimately, this is a manuscript that demonstrates a significant level of craft and originality." -- Harper Collins UK | Fiction;Young Adult;Contemporary |
Residing in a bell-shaped Universe is Galaxia, a world on the light side of the wonders. There rules the Goddess with her Angel children, who are immortal warriors of virtue. To the south there is a nebula bright and true in the shape of an eye, watching over all and inside rules the Angel King Kathos, with his warrior superheroes, powerful soldiers with swords, who are fighting against the dark dimensions, protecting all in the Universe from Evil. | Fantasy |
FOR THE NEWEST EDITION CLICK HERE: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...All Rights Reserved with LOC Copyright Registration © 2011 Peggy Kopman-Owens. This eBook edition is no longer available from Aventura eBooks Ltd., London, UK. | null |
A collection of essays by nineteenth century French political economist Frédéric Bastiat. | Nonfiction |
Pirkei Avot 2:6 "...Delve into it (the Torah) for everything is in it..." It is a tree of life for those who hold fast to it, and all of its supporters are happy! Its ways are ways of pleasantness, and all its paths are peace. Of the many different ways to study the Torah, doing so through the themes of the parshiyot is brilliant, refreshing, and unique. The combination of scholarship, spirituality, humor, current events, and history are woven together seamlessly in this book. What The Torah Teaches Us About Life, is both easy to read for the average person, and yet manages to eloquently provide profound and novel insights. Laura Weakley makes studying the Torah interesting, fun, and relevant to anyone with even the slightest interest in the Five Books of Moses. This may be her best book yet! Well worth the wait, and timely to boot! -- K.A. Weakley | null |
In The Last Brother by Nathacha Appanah, 1944 is coming to a close and nine-year-old Raj is unaware of the war devastating the rest of the world. He lives in Mauritius, a remote island in the Indian Ocean, where survival is a daily struggle for his family. When a brutal beating lands Raj in the hospital of the prison camp where his father is a guard, he meets a mysterious boy his own age. David is a refugee, one of a group of Jewish exiles whose harrowing journey took them from Nazi occupied Europe to Palestine, where they were refused entry and sent on to indefinite detainment in Mauritius.A massive storm on the island leads to a breach of security at the camp, and David escapes, with Raj's help. After a few days spent hiding from Raj's cruel father, the two young boys flee into the forest. Danger, hunger, and malaria turn what at first seems like an adventure to Raj into an increasingly desperate mission.This unforgettable and deeply moving novel sheds light on a fascinating and unexplored corner of World War II history, and establishes Nathacha Appanah as a significant international voice. | Historical Fiction;Fiction |
Summer 1944. Special Operations Executive agent Johannes Sneijder is ordered to parachute into occupied Holland and kill high-ranking SS officer Obersturmbannführer Albrecht Koestler. But Sneijder is a broken man, haunted by the loss of his family and the things the war has made him do. From the moment he lands behind enemy lines his world begins to crumble around him, and when Sneijder falls in love with Koestler's daughter things take a turn for the worse. Sneijder soon finds himself torn between the mission and his own personal demons, and with Koestler on his tail a deadly duel begins... | null |
This paradigm-breaking book dares to rethink the whole of the '60s experience, not from a political or sociological but from an historical/theological perspective. Camille Paglia wrote that "the spiritual history of the sixties has yet to be written." This is that book.Since the Old Testament was replaced by the New, we have had in Western culture a constant back and forth between the law and the spirit, between the establishment and the awakening, between the rational head and the irrational heart. If the '50s were all structure, the '60s were another romantic effort to escape the control of the rational and give full vent to the repressed spirit. Who are we, anyhow, when all the lies are stripped away?The romantics of the '60s, like the Transcendentalists, rejecting the very idea of sin, dared to open the cage and let the repressed id come forth, only to find that the light at the end of the long dark tunnel of consciousness was the gleam in Charlie Manson's eye.With the election of Barack Obama, the Sixties has finally ended, not because he fulfills the ideals of that decade, but because he, like Jojo, has returned us to where we once belonged. Bush may not be the last hippy, but his approach to life, to governing, purely intuitive and from the gut, a rejection of his father's rationality, was the last breaking wave of that ocean storm. Paradoxically, Bush was much more like Bill Clinton in being led by his id, his passions, than any true conservative.The book's chapters each correspond to a line in Emily Dickinson's poem "Finding is the first act." The parallel to Dickinson's experience in the psychic wilderness demonstrates just how much the experience of the '60s was part of an ongoing American story and not an aberration. Though it seems contradictory, this book argues for an appreciation of the three '60 1960s, 1860s, 1660s, each a chapter of the religious core of the American story.The central theme of the decade, a romantic rebellion against neo-orthodox cynicism, may well have been a mistake, but a necessary mistake, a correction that had to be made. Postmodernism's rejection of the essential romanticism that drove that decade, its emphasis on contingency and absence, is but another signifier for our powerlessness in the hands of an angry God. The enemy turned out to be not them, nor the social structure, but us. Hence the final line of the Dickinson "Jason sham too." | null |
Things are going well for Davey Carter. She loves her job and she has a comfortable bed. Granted, her love life is non-existent, her pot-smoking mother is wreaking havoc in her apartment, and she is starting to suspect that her lesbian best friend might be secretly in love with her. But none of that matters when Davey meets Danny, a kind, loving, intelligent man who just may be the love of Davey's life. Until it turns out that Danny is harboring a secret of his own. | Romance |
The Civil War took Sonja Brooks' husband and left her alone. Unprotected and scared, she runs headlong into a life changing event when she's attacked by a pack of wolves. Her fate as a werewolf is sealed. When she stumbles upon Ty Loflin, a Rebel solider dying of his wounds, she nurses him back to health. He's the perfect mate, but will he want her once he knows the truth? In Book 1 of this new series by Award-winning author Catherine Wolffe, the Western Werewolf Legend weaves a new blend of western romance with paranormal elements involving werewolves and vampires. | Fantasy;Romance |
Sometimes love doesn't want to settle with just being friends. Trayce and David have tried over the years to remain just friends and ignore the constant pull of something more. Caught in the daily grind of their day to day lives, these two firefighters are mainly intent on keeping the people of their town safe, until one small turn of events pulls them both into a life and death game with a man they both know very well.After a large warehouse explosion threatens to take away the man she loves, Trayce must make the decision to stay and fight for their love, or turn away from it. Twists and turns take them on a roller coaster ride of close calls and even closer moments to remember, paving the way toward a future neither one would have ever dreamed of. | null |
A true story about a woman with 5 husbands, secretly chasing killers and missing people, until she collides with a brash mystery man, an abrupt therapist in a padded room and a revered Lakota medicine man. | Nonfiction |
Living with a weird brother in a small town can be tough enough. Having a spectacular fall through the ice at a skating party and nearly drowning are grounds for embarrassment. But having a vision and narrating it to the assembled crowd solidifies your status as an outcast. What Ruby Carson saw during that fateful day was her entire town buildings and people floating underwater. Then an orange-tipped surveyor stake turns up in a farmer's field. Another is found in the cemetery. A man with surveying equipment is spotted eating lunch near Pokiok Falls. The residents of Haverton soon discover that a massive dam is being constructed and that most of their homes will be swallowed by the rising water. Suspicions mount, tempers flare, and secrets are revealed. As the town prepares for its own demise, 14-year-old Ruby Carson sees it all from a front-row seat. Set in the 1960s, The Town That Drowned evokes the awkwardness of childhood, the thrill of first love, and the importance of having a place to call home. Deftly written in a deceptively unassuming style, Nason's keen insights into human nature and the depth of human attachment to place make this novel ripple in an amber tension of light and shadow. | Young Adult;Historical Fiction;Fiction;Romance |
Once upon a time there was a foolish Fairy King who let pride and spite guide his thinking. As punishment for his impudence and betrayal, his clan condemned him to human form and charged him with the task of earning the trust of a single mortal. Given less than a year to achieve his goal, poor Frisque finds himself banished to the present day. From the age of early myth to our modern era, Fairies have inhabited a magical niche in the human imagination. The journey and musings of little Frisque provide a keen insight into the true purpose of these magical imps. | Romance |
Thin Wire is an honest and intimate account of heroin addiction told by both mother and daughter. Amber is introduced to drugs and becomes addicted without her mother's knowledge. She meets a dealer who feeds her habit. Whilst living together, they are raided by the police. Bailed to her mother's address with a £200-a-day addiction, Amber doesn't think her family will accept her back when they discover the truth. When she's charged by the police with dealing class A drugs and accepting stolen goods, she fears she'll go to prison. Trying to feed her habit alone, Amber meets a fellow addict who offers to introduce her to prostitution. The prospect terrifies her, but will her mother help her?An unflinching story that looks at drug addiction from two sides. The book's concluding section offers two sets of personal guidelines; one for addicts, the other for parents or partners of addicts, while the in-depth, harrowing real life story vividly illustrates the difficulties of overcoming addiction. In a society where 50% of teenagers experiment with drugs, Amber is every mother's child. She could be yours. | Nonfiction |
In this novel of magical realism, the Wind Demon makes a valiant attempt to save the world and everything in it from humanity’s twin cancers of environmental hubris and endless warfare. His allies include homeless children, bag ladies, certain tribes on the Molecular level, an ancient samurai sword, post-apocalyptic trashcan gladiators, an artist and part-time witch, a cook. His adversary is a corporation of elite players in media, military, government and industry bent on building a secret, high-risk--and highly profitable--hot fusion power plant in lower Manhattan. The Wind’s battleground is a cordoned-off section of the Lower East Side now dubbed “District of Containment” and currently used as an indefinite holding area for dissidents and enemies of the state. "I mean," figured Sideswipe, "you take too much shit away from people, they got nothing to lose, am I right? Pretty soon law an' order, even civilization as we know it–it don't matter to 'em no more." How the Wind Demon Been Save’ the World is the story of a leaderless and highly diverse band of disenfranchised human beings who occupy the ghetto that confines them, and transform it into their own version of the American dream. WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM THE WIND. | null |
Syrian immigrant Moussa Abadi was only 33, and his future wife, Odette Rosenstock, 28, when they found themselves trapped in Nazi-occupied France. This young Jewish couple—he a graduate student in theater, and she a doctor—was poor but resolute. Risking their own lives and relying on false papers, the Abadis hid Jewish children in Catholic schools and convents and with Protestant families. In 1943, their clandestine organization—the Marcel Network—became one of the most successful operations of Jewish resistance in Europe. By the end of the war, 527 children owed their survival to the Abadis. Yet their improbable success came with almost unspeakable sacrifice. As an example of what just two people of good will can accomplish in the face of crimes against humanity, the Abadis' story is a lesson in moral and physical courage. Drawn from a multitude of sources, including hundreds of documents in the Abadis' archives and dozens of interviews with the now grown children they rescued, Fred Coleman tells the Abadis' full story for the first time. The Marcel Network also breaks historic ground, and reveals how the Catholic Church, French Christians, and Jews themselves did far more to save Jewish lives than is generally known. | Nonfiction |
Description Nirupa has an interesting life, traveling around the world with her mother. But she is lonely. She longs to be like the other kids, but above all Nirupa longs to meet her father whom she has never seen. When she receives a mysterious gift the day of her birthday she knows her life is about to change completely. But she is wrong; Her life was meant to be extraordinary since the day she was born. | null |
Description:A DOG NAMED LEAF is a New York Times Best SellerA big-hearted and undeniably appealing memoir about a man and his dog. After authoring thirteen successful books that tell other people’s stories about the human-animal bond, Allen is ready to tell his own story—a remarkable journey with a highly intuitive but troubled dog who literally saved Allen’s life.The American Society of Journalist and Authors (ASJA) has selected A DOG NAMED LEAF by Minnesota authors Allen Anderson with Linda Anderson (Globe Pequot/Lyons Press) as one of the winners of the prestigious 2013 ASJA Awards in the Lifestyle/Memoir category. It’s the story of how one man and one dog came together at exactly the right time for miracles to occur. This award is like the Academy Awards for authors in that it is given by your peers. Some of the best writers in the country submitted books for consideration. http://asja.org/for-writers/annual-wr... Endorsements:"Impossible to put down. Read and share widely."--Marc Bekoff, The Emotional Lives of Animals"Pulse-pounding brushes with danger, startling synchronicities, and insights on fulfilling one’s purpose in life offer hope and new perspectives. This is truly the most unusual dog book ever.”--Dr. Marty Becker, Resident Veterinarian Good Morning America and The Dr. Oz Show; featured columnist vetstreet.com"A Dog Named Leaf is a very touching and well-written book that clearly comes from Allen Anderson’s heart. Although I am not a religious or spiritual person and couldn’t wrap my mind around some of the things that happened in Allen and Leaf’s story, the more I read, the more my skepticism melted. I am convinced of Leaf’s ability to sense what Allen needed. This book will make readers feel as if they know Leaf, and they’ll grow to love him too.”--Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson, Ph.D., New York Times bestselling author of 24 books, including When Elephants Weep, Dogs Never Lie about Love, and The Dog Who Couldn't Stop Loving"A remarkable story that will reaffirm your faith in the unique and mutually healing bond that can sometimes form between humans and animals." --Gwen Cooper, New York Times bestselling author of Homer's OdysseyReviews:"Part Marley and Me and part Jon Katz... the story is endearing, and the many photographs of Leaf running, swimming, and chasing a tennis ball in south Minneapolis are adorable."--Laurie Hertzel, "The Browser" MINNEAPOLIS STAR TRIBUNE"A Dog Named Leaf is a beautiful story told with honesty and depth. You'll be changed by Allen and Leaf's journey. This book will fill you with hope."--Peggy Frezon, Brooks Books, Peggy's Pet PlaceAllen says, “Thanks to a loving, intuitive, paper-chewing pup, I am alive and well today.”--National Examiner, as told to L.A. Justice, December 17, 2012"This touching, almost lyrical book [A Dog Named Leaf] is a very personal story bravely told by the author and his wife... This is a lovely story that will uplift anyone who has ever loved a dog."--Amy Shojai, About.com Guide, December 27, 2012"If you've ever doubted animals have souls, this book will open your heart and mind to truly believing we are all connected. You will never doubt again. Your life will be enriched far beyond what you could have ever imagined and you will have author Allen Anderson to thank for it. A Dog Named Leaf is a great gift idea for the dog loving friends and family in your life!"--Barbara Techel, Joyful Paws"...The authorial voice is distinctly Allen's. In 2006, Allen learns that he has an unruptured brain aneurysm, seven months after the family adopts a black cocker spaniel, Leaf, from a shelter. Throughout, he clearly conveys the affection that he and his dog have for each other and how that affection proved crucial to his recovery from brain surgery..." --PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY, September 24, 2012 | Nonfiction |
THE BOOK THAT WASN'T S'POSED TO BE A BOOK!Conceived as 40 Facebook lessons to be posted daily 40 days before her 40th birthday, TeeJ, a bold domestic violence survivor, told all of her deepest secrets and turned her heartbreaks and comedic misadventures into 388 pages of transparent, raw, purging and practical life lessons for people of ALL ages. From ages 18-99, you will undeniably relate to TeeJ as she takes you on a ride full of twists and turns that will have you crying one minute, thrown for a left turn, and then spontaneously cracking up laughing because she has caught you off-guard with one of her unabashed admissions. TeeJ is the hilarious and brutally honest best friend we all want to have.Veteran TV editor TaJuan "TeeJ" Mercer is a self-proclaimed "hater of writing/lover of people," whose day job consists of shaping stories of popular television shows for network giants such as NBC, ABC, MTV, VH1, TLC, Style, The History Channel and WEtv.With a revealingly fresh, honestly raw and amusingly incisive perspective, TeeJ bares her soul with grace, humility and humor, as she converses openly with God, family, friends and even complete strangers about the trials, the challenges and the disappointments she has faced, including almost losing her life at the hands of her ex-husband-several times. Each day along the way, TeeJ offers another life lesson illustrating the three concepts for a happy, giddy, and guilt-free life:* OOPS AIN'T IN GOD'S VOCABULARY releases you from the mistakes of your PAST* I DON'T FIX CRAZY reconciles the circumstances of your PRESENT* JUST KEEP WAKING UP reestablishes hope for your FUTURE | Nonfiction |
Fifteen-year-old Isadora was born with a silver hair. Though she dyes it an average brown and has perfected blending into the background, she battles with always feeling like a secret freak. Things worsen when her mother remarries. Isadora and her new stepbrother, Cheyenne, have little interest in each other or their new home--- until they discover an unsettling story about a sixteen-year-old girl who went missing from their home, never to be heard from again. Obsessed with the details of the girl's disappearance, Isadora's best friend, Heather, consults with an old Ouija board, ripping the veil between our worlds wide open. Heather vanishes, as does Isadora's mother. Bit by bit, Isadora and Cheyenne, along with their wise cat Serena get sucked into an ancient realm long forgotten by humans- an enchanted land where nothing is what it seems, where nothing can be taken for granted. Before Isadora can save anyone, she will have to dive deep into an unfamiliar world--- one that holds the darkest truths to her fears and family secrets, leaving her to face an intimate threat that will change her life forever . . . | Fiction |
This engaging tale of adventure and camaraderie welcomes the reader aboard an unexpected journey with unforeseen events. For children of all ages who enjoy the sea, from the deck or the shore, this adventure begs to be read again and again. Illustrate the events in this journal as you would record the voyage. Share with family and friends and see what they think of the surprise ending! | null |
Veronica Cruz has been through hell and back. After disconnecting with the world two years ago to be at the side of her dying mother, she’s left alone, unemployed, overweight, and feeling a decade older than her twenty-eight years. When her best friend coaxes her into joining the local gym to ditch her depression and rejuvenate her life, she meets Noah. Assigned to help Veronica lose weight, Noah is everything she expected a young trainer to be—perfectly chiseled, supportive and motivating. Add to that, he’s incredibly sexy. He’s everything she’s ever looked for in a man. What she least expected was for him to fall for her, but he has. There's just one glaring Noah is eight years younger.Noah Quintanilla has his eye on a boxing title—someday. Down for a few months with an injury, his maintenance-boy pay at 5th Street Gym won't cut it. He’s finally given the opportunity to train. The catch? His trainee is an out-of-shape woman with a free week pass. Taking on the challenge, Noah stumbles into one of the closest friendships he’s ever known, and before he knows it, he’s in love. But Veronica’s not having it—the age difference is too much. Their platonic relationship means having to watch her date other men—something that would make him crazy. Believing he's the man for her, Noah sets out to prove that age is but an illusion, and there's more to him than just a number.Adult Contemporary | Romance;Contemporary |
“No common dreams, no common pools,For these to travel, the stones to rule.Twelve trees, seven falls, in hidden gorgeWatch over one secret wisely forged.”Few remember the crystal pools that opened doors to hidden worlds. A rumor of a rumor says that one world was left open. What emerges from this world does not fail to leave its mark.Small as a pebble or tall as a tree, shadowy creatures carry out secret missions. Things have been taken, fates intertwined, and piece by piece another world begins to fall apart. The end of their world draws near unless help comes from an unlikely source. A thousand branches tremble at the thought of welcoming a dangerous thing, a foreign agent, a hummen.One boy thinks it’s just another one of his daydreams. Just a fancy dragonfly landing on his desk, he supposes, until he takes a closer look. A promise, a mystery, a secret book, a modified Harley, and a majestic gorge surpass his wildest dreams.Dare to plunge into a twisting, witty adventure in "A Hummen in Spiral Gorge" (Book 1 of the "Stones of Elemdray")Notice: The names in this book do not represent any real-life personalities. Any gnome named Reminim, dwargen named Dwenzuak, or troll named Umdim are coincidentally named and non-related to this fictional work. | null |
Download for free from: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...Author's site: http://www.smashwords.com/profile/vie..."Evolution: the future" is a transhumanist novel about emerging technologies and space, set in a near future populated by humans and digital beings. Suspense and action, but also a fascinating travel into the impacts of Artificial Intelligence on our civilization.According to future studies, the world will be dominated soon by disruptive technologies, able to plunge Mankind into an era of accelerated progress. Main outcomes will be the achievement of immortality, the creation of smarter than human Artificial Intelligence and the spread of the new species through the universe.“Evolution: the future” is a breathtaking story set in a near future altered almost beyond recognition by disruptive technologies.24th century. Humans live on Earth and the Moon, last strongholds of their past power. Mars and the Net are inhabited by artificial intelligences and souls, these last obtained by digitizing the brain after death. The virtual reality allows the two races to communicate. Their differences are deep, their interests incompatible.With digitization, humans have postponed real death to an indeterminate future, but they are not happy. Towards the virtual beings they feel admiration but also envy and inferiority. The digital creatures instead cannot bear being relegated in worlds too small for their unbounded ambitions. Their Martian experience has allowed them to develop the competence necessary in extra-terrestrial environments, most of all to acquire the self-confidence indispensable for the colonization of other star systems. The Alpha Centauri project obtains the humans’ support, in exchange for the waiver of any expansion on the Earth. Just before departure, Earth Security intercepts a suspect message from the Space Agency. Terrorism? The evidence leads to the Elects, a sect that entered Net fifty years before through a collective suicide...Eve and Victoria, the main characters, are “souls”, digital beings whose brain was digitized after death. They move in a context of epoch making events, becoming more and more involved and finally merging their destiny with that of the digital people.A script is also available. The last edition of the ebook can be downloaded from the Author's website. A vast bibliography as well as links to videos by main exponents of advanced think tanks, plunge the reader into an enchanting, boundless voyage. | null |
The beautiful Parsenis sisters led charmed lives – or so they thought. Born into a prosperous Greek American family, sisters Nicole and Theodora have achieved the perfect balance between the old world rich in Greek tradition and the freedom of life in America. But when Theodora marries a rich and handsome man from outside the Greek community, events are set in motion that threaten to disrupt the enchanted “circle” of the sisters’ lives.Headstrong and independent, Nicole plunges into life head-first. Her talent and astute business acumen make her the perfect heir to her father’s empire, but his old world attitudes prevent him from giving the top spot to a woman. Nicole’s world spins out of control when she falls for a married senator who shares her heritage and her dreams. As the dramatic plot unfolds, the two young women must confront deceit and betrayal and the consequences of their personal choices – while they struggle to preserve the values they cherish.Set in Baltimore, Annapolis and the tiny island of Ikaria, Greece, Circle Dance gives the reader a view into the lives of a dynamic family that has successfully achieved the American dream without abandoning the customs and traditions handed down through their Greek heritage. Artfully intertwined plots bring generations together in a dance of rejoicing and mourning, loss and healing that will keep readers enthralled until the last frame. | Fiction |
Ebbie's life was never really "normal", but when her mother is burned at the stake it changes forever. Forced to relocate, her entire clan begin to learn to live in peace. Ebbie takes care of everyone in her family selflessly. Until she sees Egan in the market place. Then her world starts to tail spin again. He is everything she never knew she wanted, but he comes with deadly secrets. When faced with the harsh truth, will she choose love or walk away? | null |
Evola articulates the close relationship between the physical rigors of mountain climbing and the ascent of the initiate toward self-transcendence. Julius Evola, a leading exponent of esoteric thought, was also an ardent mountain climber who personally scaled the peaks of the Tyrols, Alps, and Dolomites. For Evola the physical conquest of a mountain, with all the courage, self-transcendence and mental lucidity that it entails, becomes an inseparable and complementary part of spiritual awakening. It is no coincidence that many ancient cultures chose mountains as the abodes of their gods and considered the rigorous ascent of peaks as the task of heroes and initiates. In modern times, which tend to suffocate the heroic with naked self interest, the mountain still forms part of the profound dimension of spirit where the soul finds within itself more than what it thought itself to be. In Meditations on the Peaks, Evola combines recollections of his own experiences with reflections on other inspirational men and women who shared his view of the transcendent greatness of mountains. | Nonfiction |
An earthquake in Masada, Israel, kills hundreds and reveals a tomb buried in the heart of the mountain. A trio of investigators—Sergeant Jordan Stone, a military forensic expert; Father Rhun Korza, a Vatican priest; and Dr. Erin Granger, a brilliant but disillusioned archaeologist—are sent to explore the macabre discovery, a subterranean temple holding the crucified body of a mummified girl.But a brutal attack at the site sets the three on the run, thrusting them into a race to recover what was once preserved in the tomb’s sarcophagus: a book rumored to have been written by Christ’s own hand, a tome that is said to hold the secrets to His divinity. But the enemy who hounds them is like no other, a force of ancient evil directed by a leader of impossible ambitions and incalculable cunning.From crumbling tombs to splendorous churches, Erin and her two companions must confront a past that traces back thousands of years, to a time when ungodly beasts hunted the dark spaces of the world, to a moment in history when Christ made a miraculous offer, a pact of salvation for those who were damned for eternity.Here is a novel that is explosive in its revelation of a secret history. Why do Catholic priests wear pectoral crosses? Why are they sworn to celibacy? Why do the monks hide their countenances under hoods? And why does Catholicism insist that the consecration of wine during Mass results in its transformation to Christ’s own blood? The answers to all go back to a secret sect within the Vatican, one whispered as rumor but whose very existence was painted for all to see by Rembrandt himself, a shadowy order known simply as the Sanguines.In the end, be warned: some books should never be found, never opened—until now. | Fiction;Fantasy;Mystery |
“Her knees were weak and if not for that marble pillar beside her shoulder she would faint and fall not far from the maze at the end of the main aisle of the church.” STIMULATING FOR THE IMAGINATION - Our novel is packed with exciting action and carries the ability to introduce new readers to fantasy and science fiction!GREAT COVER ART DISPLAY - Our book displays a great piece of cover art which is perfect for display on your bookshelf, center coffee table, hall shelf or even your own bedside table!Blazing Night enters society in Vancouver. The father dies, beginning the endless search for the family. The story moves a few centuries into the future in which gaming is what everybody is excited about. People, robots, clones, dragons and monsters are playing. The novel was edited by Robert H. Byers, born February 1931 died March 2018, Bob edited the novel Blazing Night and the first chapter of Blue Earth. According to him, lots of corrections were needed on every page. He not only marked these, but read the text loud and made sure it sounded great. For him J. M. K. Walkow is "the Canadian Conrad". Joseph Conrad, born Józef Teodor Konrad Korzeniowski, was a Polish-British writer regarded as one of the greatest novelists to write in the English language. According to a local paper in January of 2013, Blazing Night is a self-described naturalistic fantasy tale, five years in the making, as "part fantasy, part science fiction and there's some real science in there, too." J. M. K. Walkow began the novel when he was unemployed in 2004, and wrote it in about four months. "I was looking for work while my sons were going to French immersion school. We spent hours in the public library, and I was reading some books and helping them with their French and one day I just started writing," he said. Spiritual, science fiction and reality all rolled into one, no surprise is making it's way around the world! commented a fan.The author is funding independent innovation in artificial intelligence, cyber security, robo-advisor, oncology, mathematics, fine art, literature and photography. Jmk Walkow is a pen name for Jacek Walkowicz.Blazing Night, Adventure Book, Science Fiction - Blazing Night By J.M.K. Walkow, Engaging Action And Adventure, Stimulates The Imagination, Paperback Cover, Cover Art Display | null |
The dark and empty world of Renee becomes painfully clear and is suffered in silence no more. Lacking the love and support that Renee should have been given at home, Renee turns to drugs, shoplifting, and violence. Inspired by no one, Renee relies to her vivid imagination and fantasies of one day living a better life to stay alive. Suffocated by negativity and surrounded by the living dead, what will happen to Renee?In this shocking page turning, unforgettable account of child abuse and neglect, M Renee invites you on a journey that reveals the different ways children cope with the most desperate of circumstances. This heart-stopping memoir is for anyone who searches for the motivation to overcome the past. | Nonfiction |
Daniel Quinn, well known for Ishmael – a life-changing book for readers the world over – once again turns the tables and creates an otherworld that is very like our own, yet fascinating beyond words. Imagine that Nazi Germany was the first to develop an atomic bomb and the Allies surrendered. America was never bombed, occupied, or even invaded, but was nonetheless forced to recognize Nazi world dominance. The Nazis continued to press their campaign to rid the planet of “mongrel races” until eventually the world – from Capetown to Tokyo – was populated by only white faces. Two thousand years in the future people don’t remember, or much care, about this distant past. The reality is that to be human is to be Caucasian, and what came before was literally ancient history having nothing to do with those then living. Now imagine that reincarnation is real, that souls migrate over time from one living creature to another, and that a soul that once animated an American black woman living at the time of World War II now animates an Aryan in Quinn’s new world, and that due to a traumatic accident memories of this earlier incarnation assert themselves. Compared by readers and critics alike to 1984 and Brave New World, After Dachau is a new dystopian classic with much to say about our own time, and the dynamics of human history. | Fiction |
The bond of friendship between Mary Watson and Elisabeth (Lizzie) Mountford shouldn't exist, and yet it does. Mary is an orphan, and Lizzie is the daughter of a Lord and Lady. Due to terrible circumstances, Mary has no option but to leave her friend and travel to foreign shores. Although Lizzie's parents are relieved, little do they realise the two young women will grow ever closer, even at a distance. During their time apart, Mary and Lizzie face trials and tribulations. Yet each will be supported by the other through their letters. Will Mary's journey abroad lead her to happiness? Or will she suffer the pangs of unrequited love? And will Lizzie find contentment back home in England? Only time will tell. The two women hope to be in each other's company once again, and that their journeys will lead them to find true love. | null |
- عبقرية محمد صلى الله عليه وسلم.- عبقرية الصديق رضي الله عنه.- عبقرية عمر رضي الله عنه.- عبقرية عثمان بن عفان رضي الله عنه.- عبقرية الإمام علي رضي الله عنه.- عبقرية خالد رضي الله عنه.نبذة موقع النيل والفرات:من الصعوبة بمكان... إدراك مدى الأثر الذي تركه العقاد للحضارة العربية... فهذا المفكر الأسطورة ترك ميراثاً يستعصي إدراكه على كل ذي قدرة وفكر... عشرات بل مئات الكتب والدراسات والمقالات والأشعار... ومن عينة كتاباته السياسية التي توقفت بعد الثورة يبرز كتابه "لا شيوعية ولا استعمار" كعلامة حقيقية في هذا المضمار.. وتعد العبقريات أشهر ما أخرج العقاد للفكر الإسلامي وهو لم يكتب تاريخاً للأشخاص أو الوقائع فحسب... كل كان يصب الفكر في قوالب كتبه محللاً للأحداث ومواقف الشخصيات التي يتناولها عن طريق معالجته ومناقشته لأمهات الكتب التاريخية ومراجعها الكبرى...وبين يدينا كتاب جمع توليفة من كتب العبقريات وكانت البداية مع عبقرية محمد صلى الله عليه وسلم، حيث تصدى العقاد في هذا الكتاب للدفاع الذي يتصدى للدفاع عن رسول الله، والذود عن شرعته، والرد على شانئيه ممن اجترأوا على مناوأته، والإتيان بالبرهان تلو البرهان على إثبات عظمته، وعظمة دعوته، وقدسية رسالته، وسمو عبقريته... لقد تناول العقاد الكشف عن عبقرية محمد صلى الله عليه وسلم في قوله وفعله، بل في سكوته وفكره، فأفاد العقاد وأجاد، واستعرض فأبدع، واستقص فأشبع، وتألقت غيرته على محمد (صلى الله عليه وسلم)، في رد سهام مناوئيه إلى نحورهم، وإقحامهم في كل باطل من دعاويهم.أما في كتابه عبقرية الصديق فبدأ العقاد كتابه بالقول في تقديم كتابي هذا عن أبي بكر الصديق أقول ما قلته في "عبقرية محمد" و"عبقرية عمر" وكل كتاب من هذا القبيل.وفحواه أنني لا أكتب ترجمة للصديق رضي الله عنه، ولا أكتب تاريخاً لخلافته وحوادث عصره، ولا أعني بالوقائع من حيث هي وقائع، ولا بالأخبار من حيث هي أخبار، فهذه موضوعات لم أقصدها ولم أذكر في عناوين الكتب ما يعد القارئ بها ويوجه استطلاعه إليها. ولكنما قصدت أن أرسم للصديق صورة نفسية تعرفنا به، وتجلو لنا خلائقه وبواعث أعماله، كما تجلو الصورة ملامح من تراه بالعين. فلا تعنينا الوقائع والأخبار إلا بمقدار ما تؤدي أداءها في هذا المقصد الذي لا مقصد لنا غيره... ولعل حادثاً صغيراً يستحق منا التقديم على أكبر الحوادث إذا كانت فيه دلالة نفسية أكبر من دلالته، ولمحة مصورة أظهر من لمحته. بل لعل الكلمة الموجزة التي تجيء عرضاً في المناسبات تتقدم لهذا السبب على الحوادث كبيرها وصغيرها في مقياس التاريخ".إن ذلك النص العقادي الواضح ليحمل في طياته تبياناً واضحاً على أن مؤلف هذه العبقريات لم يقصد الكتابة التاريخية المعروفة والمتداولة، وإنما كان هدفه الحقيقي من وراء كتابته لتلك السير أمراً آخر هو الذي دفعه وألح عليه إلى أن يتناول تلك الشخصيات بذلك "التشكيل الحر" لو جاز لنا هذا التعبير.وبالعودة لمتن كتابة "عبقرية الصديق" رضي الله عنه، نجد أن العقاد قد أوفى الإمام الصديق حقه من التقدير والتوقير في هذه الدراسة بلا مراء. وأثبت لقراءة بما لا يدع مجالاً لباحث من أنه الصديق قولاً وفعلاً وعملاً في كل خلائقه وشمائله.. فهو الكريم السمح الودود.. وهو الأمين في الصداقة، والأمين في السيرة، والأمين في المال، والأمين في الإيمان، والأمين في الحكومة إلى جانب شجاعته في الرأي وفي القتال.. ثم هو في كل أولئك أكثر من الأمين.ولم يفت العقاد في هذه الدراسة أن يعالج كالعهد به العديد من صفات الصديق أبي بكر رضي الله عنه في أسلوب جزل رصين اشتهر به العقاد بين كتاب عصره. فناقش خلال صفحاته دعاوى المستشرقين وأباطيل المبطلين بالدليل الواضح والحجة البينة التي لا نملك إزاءها سوى التسليم.وقد تألق العقاد في هذه الدراسة عندما تصدى للرد على تلك الفرية الكبرى التي تقول بها بعض أعداء الإسلام بالنسبة لخلافة أبي بكر. قالت تلك الفردية: "إن هناك اتفاقاً سابقاً ومؤامرة دبرت بين أبي بكر وعمر وأبي عبيدة ليأخذ الخلافة الأول والثاني فالثالث رضوان الله عليهم.كما تألق العقاد –كذلك- في هذه الدراسة عن الصديق أبي بكر عندما قارن بين أبي بكر وعمر في علاقتهما بالنبي صلى الله عليه وسلم فأثبت بالأدلة والبراهين أن أبا بكر نموذج للإقتداء في صدر الإسلام، وعمر نموذج للاجتهاد. وكلاهما كان يحب النبي ويطيعه ويحرص على سنته، ويعجب به غاية ما في وسعه من إعجاب؟وفي كتابه عبقرية عمر، امتطى العقاد لهذا الكتاب صهوة فكره، بغية الإحاطة بعظمة بطله، فبطله ذو لون جديد، وعبقريته ذات طابع فريد، والكتاب ليس سرداً لسيرة عمر بن الخطاب، ولا عرضاً لتاريخ عصره، وإنما هو وصف له، ودراسة لأطواره، ودلالة على خصائص عظمته، واستفادة من هذه الخصائص لعلم النفس، وعلم الأخلاق، وحقائق الحياة، لذلك ركز العقاد على ما يفيد هذه الدراسة، سواء لديه أكان من حادث صغير أم عظيم. كما أظهر حرجه عندما حاول أن يجاري من يسمون بالكتّاب المنصفين، الذين يقرنون المدائح بالمعايب، ويمزجون النقائص بالمناقب، ولا يأتون بحسنة إلا نقبوا عن سيئة تمحوها، أو تقلل منها، وكأن سر حرج العقاد، أنه لم يجد عيباً ولا ما يستحق اللوم في حياة عمر وأطواره، مما جعله يتوقع أن يتهم بالمغالاة والتحيز والإعجاب، إذ كيف يحاسب-هو أو غيره-عمر بن الخطاب، وقد كان عمر يحاسب نفسه بأعنف مما كان يمكن أن يحاسبه غيره؟وسيرة عبقرية عثمان كانت المحطة الرابعة للعقاد، وسيرة عثمان ما هي إلا نمط من أنماط متعددة، زخرت بها الدعوة الإسلامية من سير الخلفاء، وغير الخلفاء كأبي عبيدة، وخالد، وسعد، وأمثالهم من الصحابة والتابعين.. ما منهم إلا من كان عظيماً بمزية، وعلماً من أعلام التاريخ...وسيرة عثمان لا تبرز لنا عبقرية كعبقرية الصديق أو الفاروق أو الإمام، وإنما تبرز لنا من جانب الأريحية صفحة لا تطوى، ولا يستطيع العقل الرشيد أن يرجع بها إلى باعث غير باعث العقيدة والإيمان.لذلك لم يكن مقتل عمر كمقتل عثمان، فبواطن الحادثين والقيم النفسية الكامنة وراءهما متباينة، لأن عمر قتل بيد دخيلة على الإسلام، وبتخطيط من خصوم الإسلام، أما عثمان... فقد قتل بأيد مسلمة، حركها وقادها الدهماء الشاغبون.ولقد تساءل الكاتب: ماذا صنعت العقيدة إذن بنفوس الحاكمين والمحكومين؟ وماذا تغير في الأمر عما عليه من فتك الجاهليين بعد قتال المؤمنين، وإيمان الكافرين؟ ولكنه استدرك بأن العقيدة لا تبطل الخلاف والنزاع، ولا تلغي الحوادث والخصومات، وإلا كانت شللاً معطلاً لحياة الأمم، ومعوقاً لمجرى التاريخ.ولا عجب إذن إن كان الناس قد ابتلوا بشرور تفوق الخصومات، إذ ليس المطلوب من العقيدة إبطالها، وإنما أن ترتفع بالنفوس عن أن تكون في غير شأن، أو شأن هزيل ضئيل، فدورها الحقيقي: إيقاظ القيم، وتحريك الهمم.وعلى هذا لم يكن مدار البحث الخصومات والأحداث، وإنما القيم والمبادئ التي دارت عليها الخصومات والأحداث.. ولقد كان مدار الخصومة، محاسبة الرعية للإمام، ومحاسبة الإمام لنفسه.وقارن الكاتب بين ما كان عليه أبناء الجاهلية والبادية وحكومات الجزيرة العربية من غمط حق المحكوم في محاسبة الحاكم، حيث كانت شرعة الحكام وقتئذ طغياناً مطلقاً من جميع القيود.. وبين ما وصلت إليه الأمور في إطار التطور إلى حد محاسبة الخليفة على كل صغيرة وكبيرة، ومن كل صغير وكبير، وهذا ما حققته العقيدة الإسلامية على أعقاب الجاهلية.. ولئن كانت المآرب الذاتية وراء كل محاسبة لعثمان، فإن هذا كان عيب الحركة، وإن لم يكن عيباً لحق المحاسبة، لأن محاسبة الحكام كانت قيمة جديدة في الصدر الأول من الإسلام، فنادى بها الخاصة والعامة، وظلت عاملاً مهماً في السياسة أيام الخلافة، وبعد أن صار الحكم ملكاً متوارثاً..ولقد بلغ عثمان الذروة في محاسبة نفسه، وتحرجة من المساس بالحياة البشرية ولو في سبيل الحفاظ على حياته، فلما أيقن القتل رفض أن يبقى في داره من يقتل أحداً ممن يحيطون به، ولما طلب منه التنحي أبى، ولم يكن إباؤه حرصاً منه على السلطان، فلا شيء أغلى من الحياة وقد هانت عليه، ولا يزعم أحد أنه غنم من الخلافة مالاً، فقد ترك الدنيا وماله دون ما كان عليه يوم استخلف، ولكنه خاف جريرة التنحي، وما سيعقب ذلك من نزاع وقتال.وعن صفات الإمام علي وعن شخصيته وعن حياته يتحدث العقاد على صفحات كتابه عبقرية الإمام علي فجاء الكتاب رائعاً بالشخصية التي تناولها وبكاتب سطورها. هذا في طهارة نشأته وعراقة أروقته، ونقاد سريرته، وعلو همته، وقوة إرادته، وغزارة علمه وثقافته، وروعة زهره وحكمته، وصدق إيمانه وشجاعته، وثباته على الحق ونصرته، وتضحيته في سبيله بروحه ومهجته... والآخر (الكاتب) في جمال عرضه، وصحة نقده، وقوة رده، وحلاوة لفظه، ودقة فهمه، وبراعة فكره، ونبل قصده...وقف لهؤلاء اللاغطين والمغالطين بالمرصاد، وتعقب كل لفظ لهم وغلط، فأظهر كيدهم ولحاجتهم وافتراءهم في ادعائهم: أن الإسلام قد قام على حد السيف، وأن محمداً كان يستهوي القتل، ويتعشق رؤية الدماء، وأن دين محمد قد أباح العبودية، وأجاز الرق، وأن تعدد زوجات محمد كان استجابة للذات حسه، وأن الإسلام قد تخطى الإنصاف في إباحته تعدد الزوجات وتوقيع العقوبة عند نشوز الزوجة، وجواز الطلاق... إلخ. واستطاع العقاد، في اقتدار وإبداع، أن يحيل مواطن التهم، كما أرادوها، إلى مواقف عظيمة، وعبقرية، وفخار هذا والذي ميز كتاب العقاد جمال عرض الموضوع، وصدق تعبير الكاتب ودقة تحليله وروعة استقصائه، وهي لا شك سمات من سمات تميز بها العقاد.وختم هذا الكتاب بعبقرية خالد حيث واصل العقاد مسيرته في سرد في سرد سير العباقرة والعظماء الذين كانت لهم مع البطولة في تاريخ الإسلام جولات، والذين كانت لهم مواقف حكمة وشجاعة سطرها لهم التاريخ، واعترف لهم بها القاصي والداني، الصديق والعدو، وعلى هذه الصفحات يروي عباس محمود العقاد سيرة واحد من هؤلاء الذين ذاع في الدنيا صيته، وعلا في التاريخ صوته، وطال في ميادين البطولة شوطه، واقترن اسمه بالنصر، فأشاع في نفوس الأعداء الفزع، وكان مجرد اختباره للقيادة مدعاة بين جنوده للثقة والطمأنينة، ومثاراً لقوة العزم وشدة الشكيمة... إنه سيف الله... خالد بن الوليد.وقد استعرض المؤلف سيرة هذا البطل: نشأته، شخصيته، إسلامه، والمعارك التي خاضها، مركزاً على أهم المنعطفات التي أبرزت عبقريته القيادية، وملقياً الضوء على علاقته بالنبي صلى الله عليه وسلم، ومكانته عنده، ومما يلفت النظر في هذه السيرة أسلوب العقاد الرائع الذي يتجلى في سردياته التي تمتع بالسلاسة وبالتحليل الذي ينفذ إلى عقل القارئ وروحه. والبديع في ذلك في أن المواقف التي صورها المؤرخون على أنها مآخذ على هذا البطل.. استطاع الكاتب بفكره الدقيق، وتحليله العميق، واستقصائه الوثيق، أن يجعلها مفاخرة له، لا معايب تهز قدره أو تقلل من شأنه... وفي هذا تكمن عظمة الكاتب، وتظهر قدرته، وتبرز شخصيته، وتثبت عبقريته. | Nonfiction |
"A Robot shall not injure a human being, or through inaction allow a human being to come to harm".That's Asimov's celebrated First Law of Robotics. And in the 21st century, all domestic robots are programmed according to that Law.But something had gone terribly wrong with Tik-Tok's "asimov circuits", and he sets out to injure as many people as possible - preferably fatally - while maintaining the exterior of a mild-mannered artist and a sincere campaigner for robot rights. So, like any self-respecting crook and murderer, he moves into politics, becoming the first robot candidate for Vice-President of the United States.Tik-Tok follows his maniacal progress from humble beginnings to the top of the heap - or almost. Because in his devious cunning, there was one element that Tik-Tok had forgotten...Winner of the BSFA Award for best novel, 1983 | Fiction |
Book by Bragg, Paul C., Bragg, Patricia | Nonfiction |
A tragic act of violence echoes through a small Minnesota townSet on the Minnesota prairie in the late 1980s during a drought season that’s pushing family farms to the brink, Little Wolves features the intertwining stories of a father searching for answers after his son commits a heinous murder, and a pastor’s wife (and washed-out scholar of early Anglo-Saxon literature) who has returned to the town for mysterious reasons of her own. A penetrating look at small-town America from the award-winning author of The Night Birds, Little Wolves weaves together elements of folklore and Norse mythology while being driven by a powerful murder mystery; a page-turning literary triumph. | Fiction;Mystery;Historical Fiction |
Two young girls with a gift for telepathy are abducted off the streets of Atlanta by a ruthless ring of human traffickers and child pornographers, and their only hope is Spencer Pelletier, a career criminal recently escaped from Leavenworth Penitentiary. | Fiction |
The Hum of Concrete is an evocative novel about a city and its people. Set in the multicultural city of Malmö, Sweden, The Hum of Concrete is the story of five people whose lives intersect.Consumed with despair, Palestinian Nassrin walks into the ocean with her baby in her arms. Susanna dares to take a stand against gay-bashers. By starlight, Bodil sees the city from the roof of a church. Estella meets her tough little half-brother for the first time. Lonely Rhyme seeks shelter in a tree full of fairy lights. And all round them, the hum of concrete.With photographic precision, Anna Solding captures both light and shadow found in the fleeting beauty of everyday life. From the silences between people and the ordinariness of places, she conjures narrative jewels of intelligence and pleasure.- See more at: http://midnightsunpublishing.com/book... | Fiction |
If parenting is making Americans unhappy, if it’s impossible to “have it all,” if people don’t have the economic, social, or political structures needed to support child rearing, then why do it? And why are anxious new parents flocking to every Tiger Mother and Bébé-raiser for advice on how to raise kids? In Why Have Kids?, Valenti explores these controversial questions through on-the-ground reporting, startling new research, and her own unique experiences as a mom. She moves beyond the black and white “mommy wars” over natural parenting, discipline, and work-life balance to explore a more nuanced reality: one filled with ambivalence, joy, guilt, and exhaustion. Would-be parents must navigate the decision to have children amidst a daunting combination of cultural expectations and hard facts. And new parents find themselves struggling to reconcile their elation with the often exhausting, confusing, and expensive business of child care. When researchers for a 2010 Pew study asked parents why they decided to have their first child, nearly 90 percent answered, for “the joy of having children.” Yet nearly every study in the last ten years shows a marked decline in the life satisfaction of those with kids. Valenti explores this disconnect between parents’ hopes and the day-to-day reality of raising children—revealing all the ways mothers and fathers are quietly struggling. A must-read for parents as well as those considering starting a family, Why Have Kids? is an explosive addition to the conversation about modern parenthood. | Nonfiction |
Tales of the Grotesque and Arabesque, the companion volume to Poe’s better-known Tales of Mystery and Imagination, contains a selection of his very best stories, many of which first appeared in book form in the original Tales of the Grotesque and Arabesque in 1840. Many of the stories deal with the familiar Poe themes of murder, obsession and passion, but this volume also contains many often-overlooked tales of the fantastic and comic, parodies and hoaxes, including ‘The Unparalleled Adventure of Hans Pfaall’, ‘Mesmeric Revelation’, ‘Hop-Frog’, and & ‘The Imp of the Perverse’.The book includes a section in colour, and contains useful essays from notable scholars: an introduction by Kevin J. Hayes and Benjamin F. Fisher on Poe and the gothic.engaging biography of Edgar Allen Poethe complete text in a modern, readable typefacean illustrated publishing history of the talestimeline in colour of Poe’s worldcolour map of Poe’s America | Classics;Fiction;Mystery |
It is a book for students and researchers of engineering departments and is related to the domain of Artificial Intelligence, Programming Languages, Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Computer Vision, Human Computer Interaction, Robotics, Human Perception, Emotions, Feelings, Human Psychology, Brain Models and Cognitive Sciences. In this book you will find the required basic knowledge and practical implementation of all the above mentioned topics.Give it a go and see yourself! | null |
Set in a beautiful but economically devastated Pennsylvania steel town, American Rust is a novel of the lost American dream and the desperation--as well as the acts of friendship, loyalty, and love--that arises from its loss. From local bars to train yards to prison, it's the story of two young men, bound to the town by family, responsibility, inertia, and the beauty around them, who dream of a future beyond the factories and abandoned homes.Left alone to care for his aging father after his mother commits suicide and his sister escapes to Yale, Isaac English longs for a life beyond his hometown. When he finally sets out to leave for good, accompanied by his temperamental best friend, they are caught up in a terrible act of violence that changes their lives forever.Evoking John Steinbeck’s novels of restless lives during the Great Depression, American Rust delves into the contemporary American heartland at a moment of profound unrest and uncertainty about the future. It's a dark but lucid vision, a moving novel about the bleak realities that battle our desire for transcendence and the power of love and friendship to redeem us. | Fiction;Mystery;Contemporary |
Alam mo ba ang ibig-sabihin ng "CONJURE"?Isa ka bang Capital S?Me quota ang pag-ibig. Sa bawat limang umiibig ay isa lang ang magiging maligaya. Kasama ka ba sa quota?Ito ang unang nobela ni Ricky Lee, premyadong scriptwriter ng mga klasikong pelikula gaya ng Himala, Moral, Anak at iba pa; at awtor ng bestselling scriptwriting manual na Trip to Quiapo. | Romance;Contemporary;Fiction |
Issues in Your Tissues is a practical, easy-to read guide to exploring the emotional holding that creates physical stress, pain and dis-ease. Full of stories, cartoons, exercises and clear descriptions, this book gives you the insight and tools you need to go into your body and get the healing answers you've been looking for."Our bodies continue to experience physical symptoms as long as we carry the emotional “charge” or vibration associated with them. Your bones may have knitted back together and you may have regained physical function, but if you have not also released the sadness or anger or fear in those tissues, your body will continue to let you know there are still issues to work on. The trick is recognizing your symptoms as an indication that there may be something non-physical to heal and then letting your body guide you to a solution." | Nonfiction |
Beautiful women... JPEGS, recreational drugs... pharmaceuticals, and elite fraternities... websites - this isn't the college scene that Victor Hastings expected. Victor likes to admire the provocative pictures of the girls he's dating. Meanwhile, these girls are posting more and more on Facebook and all the social sites. Now, all the men in his fraternity are competing for the attention of these online, amateur pinups. Three women will make an impact on Victor. Erin Masters is an alluring yet naïve co-ed. Despite outward modesty, she has no reservations about letting friends plaster her provocative images across various websites. Emily Green-Portsmith, on the other hand, comes from wealth and is comparatively more aware of her effect on men. The influence of these women does not sit well with the house mother of these fraternity boys. Affectionately known as Ma Red, this feisty former Vietnam correspondent from the old-school of etiquette and discipline is prepared to make a fight for her traditional values. And throughout these discoveries, Victor wonders: What kind of love is this?... the wired kind.[image] | Fiction;Young Adult;Contemporary |
One dedicated woman...giving voice to the suffering of many Born to an unavailable mother and an abusive father, Dorothea Dix longs simply to protect and care for her younger brothers, Charles and Joseph. But at just fourteen, she is separated from them and sent to live with relatives to be raised properly. Lonely and uncertain, Dorothea discovers that she does not possess the ability to accept the social expectations imposed on her gender and she desires to accomplish something more than finding a suitable mate. Yearning to fulfill her God-given purpose, Dorothea finds she has a gift for teaching and writing. Her pupils become a kind of family, hearts to nurture, but long bouts of illness end her teaching and Dorothea is adrift again. It’s an unexpected visit to a prison housing the mentally ill that ignites an unending fire in Dorothea’s heart—and sets her on a journey that will take her across the nation, into the halls of the Capitol, befriending presidents and lawmakers, always fighting to relieve the suffering of what Scripture deems, the least of these. In bringing nineteenth-century, historical reformer Dorothea Dix to life, author Jane Kirkpatrick combines historical accuracy with the gripping narrative of a woman who recognized suffering when others turned away, and the call she heeded to change the world. | Historical Fiction;Fiction |
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