Indiscreetly Yours
by Frank King
ISBN-10: 1597811572
Review by Heather Froeschl
Lisa Miley is seventeen years old, a junior in high school and has the same desires as most teens. She wants to have friends, be happy and enjoy life. Lisa goes to church every Sunday and listens intently to her pastor's words. But it is only recently that she truly understands them and relates them to her life.
Lisa develops a relationship with a senior, a boy who takes her to the prom and encourages her to dance. After the prom things go wrong and Lisa finds herself in a place she is sure she doesn't want to be. She discusses things with her mother and her friend, and then with the boy himself, and for a while things seem to be okay again.
Lisa pays more attention to her spiritual upbringing and finds answers there that she had overlooked before. Temptation is a powerful thing though and Lisa finds herself once more being led to do things she isn't sure she is ready for. Will she find the power to help herself?
This work of Christian Fiction is a look at an age-old temptation, and typical reaction to it. Unfortunately it takes a near disaster for the character to learn a lesson. The story is relevant to today's youth as much as it was to three generations ago. I did feel though that the plot did not run as smoothly as it could have. I also had trouble with the reality of teens speaking in the manner that Lisa spoke to her friends and the boy involved. Conversations did not have a natural flow and included too much detail to be just conversation. It felt as though the author were trying too hard to make a point or share information through the mouth's of his characters. The feel of the words came across as what an adult would hope a teen would say, and not what would truly be said in today's day and age.
The point of the book seems to be an outreach to youth. I think though that just as Lisa's parents hoped to shield her from a hard lesson the author may be disappointed in the fact that the reader's of the book will likely have to learn their own lessons the old fashioned way, and not through what they read in a work of fiction. It is a valiant effort though and the book is one that likely many Christian teens will be able to relate to.
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Mystery Review
Death Comes Too Soon: A Bridget O'Hern Mystery
by Patricia Harrington
ISBN-10: 1413777082
Review by Heather Froeschl
Bridget O'Hern is a non-profit management consultant, enticed by her friend Bev Tilton, to investigate some odd goings on at an art league. Donor funds can be a slippery thing. It may not sound like an exciting investigation but Bridget is good at what she does and she could use some time at the beach. Though the time she ends up spending there isn't quite what she had in mind. Staying at Beverly's Bed and Breakfast, Bridget and her dog Narvik find they are in for more excitement than they'd intended. Seaview, Oregon is a very small town, where everyone knows everyone else's business. It doesn't take long for the purpose of Bridget's visit to become common knowledge.
The situation she is there to look into becomes second string when someone falls to a tragic death during an art league fundraiser at a cliff-side beach. Now Bridget wants to know why anyone would resort to murder and is determined to find out who did it. The police chief isn't too happy that she is sticking her nose into his investigation, but since her business with the art league deals with the same people he is looking into over the death, he reluctantly listens to her findings. People talk in small towns and sometimes they can talk so much that every secret is revealed.
Patricia Harrington is an excellent mystery writer. This story flows so well from character to character, sub plot to main story that the reader will feel right in the middle of an intriguing whodunit. Clues are dropped in just the right spot, in precisely the right manner, and the reader will likely come to the same conclusion as the characters, at the perfect moment. Nothing is left out and so readers will not feel cheated out of the mystery resolution. The characters are full of life and even love, from the smallest of creatures such as a rescued cat, to the largest, like the police chief and Bridget herself.
I very much enjoyed "Death Comes Too Soon," the second Bridget O'Hern Mystery. Watch for more from this author, as you will soon become hooked on her style, characters and attention to detail.
by Patricia Harrington
ISBN-10: 1413777082
Review by Heather Froeschl
Bridget O'Hern is a non-profit management consultant, enticed by her friend Bev Tilton, to investigate some odd goings on at an art league. Donor funds can be a slippery thing. It may not sound like an exciting investigation but Bridget is good at what she does and she could use some time at the beach. Though the time she ends up spending there isn't quite what she had in mind. Staying at Beverly's Bed and Breakfast, Bridget and her dog Narvik find they are in for more excitement than they'd intended. Seaview, Oregon is a very small town, where everyone knows everyone else's business. It doesn't take long for the purpose of Bridget's visit to become common knowledge.
The situation she is there to look into becomes second string when someone falls to a tragic death during an art league fundraiser at a cliff-side beach. Now Bridget wants to know why anyone would resort to murder and is determined to find out who did it. The police chief isn't too happy that she is sticking her nose into his investigation, but since her business with the art league deals with the same people he is looking into over the death, he reluctantly listens to her findings. People talk in small towns and sometimes they can talk so much that every secret is revealed.
Patricia Harrington is an excellent mystery writer. This story flows so well from character to character, sub plot to main story that the reader will feel right in the middle of an intriguing whodunit. Clues are dropped in just the right spot, in precisely the right manner, and the reader will likely come to the same conclusion as the characters, at the perfect moment. Nothing is left out and so readers will not feel cheated out of the mystery resolution. The characters are full of life and even love, from the smallest of creatures such as a rescued cat, to the largest, like the police chief and Bridget herself.
I very much enjoyed "Death Comes Too Soon," the second Bridget O'Hern Mystery. Watch for more from this author, as you will soon become hooked on her style, characters and attention to detail.
Wednesday, July 20, 2005
Christian Fiction Review
The Journey
by Arnita C. Wright
ISBN-10: 1597813265
Review by Heather Froeschl
In "The Journey" Arnita Wright leads readers through the lives of a family and shares what she believes is a heavenly message. The story revolves around two women and eventually leads to a scroll and a command from on high to spread the word.
Janice begins this journey with a heart attack and is hospitalized. There her daughter, Karen, having rushed to be by her side, had an accident in the parking lot and ends up being admitted for a slight concussion. The two lapse into comas, confounding doctors and worrying their family. But these comas are caused by God and the purpose is to take Janice to heaven and allow her to watch as Karen is reminded of the awesome Christian God she has begun to lose faith in.
Karen is shown, through time travel and angel power, moments of her mother's life in which God's intervention and the power of prayer saved her many times over. She bears witness to moments when prayer saved her father's life as well, and eventually, even her own. Through it all Karen is guided by angels who are able to intervene in the goings on, while Karen of course, cannot. Will she learn from all of these glimpses into the past? Will she become a messenger for God?
Everything comes under attack in this book. This is one all-inclusive piece of propaganda. Readers are shown that good Christian children who pray and are prayed for will be protected from child molesters. We are told that teachers who instill children to have open minds by exploring other cultures are into evil doings. The author even states that a war against religion, Christianity specifically, began in the 1950's and everything people did that was outside of Christianity was in fact against it. (It couldn't be that all American's right to freedom of religion, all religion, not just Christianity, was being protected?)
In "The Journey," demons, like Discouragement, Disillusion and Lust are unlocked and invited into lives through books, games and television shows. Yoga and meditation are also invitations for evil to enter into lives and homes. Abortion is touched on in a self righteous way and stillbirth is explained as a blessing. But those who pray and are prayed for, to the Christian God, are protected, insinuating that those who aren't Christian are not protected. Arnita Wright seems to have an opinion on everything and her work of fiction "creatively altered (of) her own personal journey" reeks of just another attempt at "salvation" and conversion of non-Christians.
Clearly this isn't just a work of fiction but is a slap in the face to non-christian readers, with a pretty face promising to pray for them.
by Arnita C. Wright
ISBN-10: 1597813265
Review by Heather Froeschl
In "The Journey" Arnita Wright leads readers through the lives of a family and shares what she believes is a heavenly message. The story revolves around two women and eventually leads to a scroll and a command from on high to spread the word.
Janice begins this journey with a heart attack and is hospitalized. There her daughter, Karen, having rushed to be by her side, had an accident in the parking lot and ends up being admitted for a slight concussion. The two lapse into comas, confounding doctors and worrying their family. But these comas are caused by God and the purpose is to take Janice to heaven and allow her to watch as Karen is reminded of the awesome Christian God she has begun to lose faith in.
Karen is shown, through time travel and angel power, moments of her mother's life in which God's intervention and the power of prayer saved her many times over. She bears witness to moments when prayer saved her father's life as well, and eventually, even her own. Through it all Karen is guided by angels who are able to intervene in the goings on, while Karen of course, cannot. Will she learn from all of these glimpses into the past? Will she become a messenger for God?
Everything comes under attack in this book. This is one all-inclusive piece of propaganda. Readers are shown that good Christian children who pray and are prayed for will be protected from child molesters. We are told that teachers who instill children to have open minds by exploring other cultures are into evil doings. The author even states that a war against religion, Christianity specifically, began in the 1950's and everything people did that was outside of Christianity was in fact against it. (It couldn't be that all American's right to freedom of religion, all religion, not just Christianity, was being protected?)
In "The Journey," demons, like Discouragement, Disillusion and Lust are unlocked and invited into lives through books, games and television shows. Yoga and meditation are also invitations for evil to enter into lives and homes. Abortion is touched on in a self righteous way and stillbirth is explained as a blessing. But those who pray and are prayed for, to the Christian God, are protected, insinuating that those who aren't Christian are not protected. Arnita Wright seems to have an opinion on everything and her work of fiction "creatively altered (of) her own personal journey" reeks of just another attempt at "salvation" and conversion of non-Christians.
Clearly this isn't just a work of fiction but is a slap in the face to non-christian readers, with a pretty face promising to pray for them.
Sunday, July 17, 2005
History Review
Others: Third-Party Politics From the Nation's Founding to the Rise and Fall of the Greenback-Labor Party
by Darcy G. Richardson
ISBN-10: 0595663974
review by Heather Froeschl
Third party politics wreak havoc in the two party system of America. It has been proven. Yet time and time again, a third party springs up out of the desires of the people. Some go strong and some fizzle out from the very beginning. The desire for change is a looming giant in the United States, and always has been. For the history of third party politics one only need to look to Darcy Richardson's "Others: Third-Party Politics from the Nation's Founding to The Rise and Fall of The Greenback-Labor Party." It's a long title and a long book but it is quite thorough and a highly recommended read for anyone who is intrigued by or even mildly irritated by third parties.
Beginning with the views of our founding fathers, Richardson covers the history of American politics, including: Free Democrats, southern rights and Native Americans, the emergence of the know-nothing party, the liberal Republican movement: reformers versus politicians, the prohibition and anti-monopoly parties in 1884, and so much more. This epic history lesson is extensively detailed and seemingly all-inclusive. However, Darcy Richardson writes like a man entranced with his favorite plaything. His book reads like the work of one who is in love with his topic. Thus, the reader is also entranced and finds the reading captivating.
The book can be read in bits and pieces; the reader choosing their favorite of the bygone parties and moments in history, or it can be read in whole in study of the American way. Whether for the home enthusiast or a college library, this holding will be greatly admired. The first in a four volume series, "Others" is a thoroughly researched piece of work that sets the bar for Richardson's future books. Expect good things from Richardson and you won't be disappointed.
As a reviewer I am not the biggest fan of reading lengthy history books, but "Others" was a compelling, enlightening and entertaining read.
by Darcy G. Richardson
ISBN-10: 0595663974
review by Heather Froeschl
Third party politics wreak havoc in the two party system of America. It has been proven. Yet time and time again, a third party springs up out of the desires of the people. Some go strong and some fizzle out from the very beginning. The desire for change is a looming giant in the United States, and always has been. For the history of third party politics one only need to look to Darcy Richardson's "Others: Third-Party Politics from the Nation's Founding to The Rise and Fall of The Greenback-Labor Party." It's a long title and a long book but it is quite thorough and a highly recommended read for anyone who is intrigued by or even mildly irritated by third parties.
Beginning with the views of our founding fathers, Richardson covers the history of American politics, including: Free Democrats, southern rights and Native Americans, the emergence of the know-nothing party, the liberal Republican movement: reformers versus politicians, the prohibition and anti-monopoly parties in 1884, and so much more. This epic history lesson is extensively detailed and seemingly all-inclusive. However, Darcy Richardson writes like a man entranced with his favorite plaything. His book reads like the work of one who is in love with his topic. Thus, the reader is also entranced and finds the reading captivating.
The book can be read in bits and pieces; the reader choosing their favorite of the bygone parties and moments in history, or it can be read in whole in study of the American way. Whether for the home enthusiast or a college library, this holding will be greatly admired. The first in a four volume series, "Others" is a thoroughly researched piece of work that sets the bar for Richardson's future books. Expect good things from Richardson and you won't be disappointed.
As a reviewer I am not the biggest fan of reading lengthy history books, but "Others" was a compelling, enlightening and entertaining read.
Thursday, July 14, 2005
Non-Fiction Review
Rebirth of a Realist
by David Truskoff
ISBN-10: 1413438873
Review by Heather Froeschl
Can America learn from its past mistakes? How about those in the very recent past? Is it possible that we could learn something from the past words of our leaders? In a time when a lot of Americans feel that all we hear is lip service from our currents leaders, maybe we are due to listen more carefully to the past.
"Rebirth of a Realist" offers the words and wisdom of Henry Wallace and Franklin D. Roosevelt. It offers a relevant look at the Preamble of the Progressive Party Platform from 1948, which could very easily be applied to today's world. But, will we listen?
Author David Truskoff takes us back in the beginning of the book via his journal of 1947. A veteran of the war, happy to be back home but unsure of what his life would be, he hitchhiked across the country to discover himself. His rediscovery of that journal triggers memories of that time, up to the present day as memories have a way of progressing. During the recollection of those he also shares moments of politics and world affairs and brings to life the quotes of those he wishes us to pay heed to.
A work of non-fiction, "Rebirth of a Realist" reads much like a political editorial commentary. It isn't for everyone's tastes, but everyone should hear its message. We cannot sit blindly by when there is much to be done. Younger folks should read it as a means of discovering some truth about America's history through the last century, truths you may not hear about in history class. Those of the "greatest generation" will likely find points within the book to agree upon and nod over as well as others that won't be quite as they recalled.
Truskoff speaks his mind. He is a realist. He offers voices from the past so that we just might listen.
by David Truskoff
ISBN-10: 1413438873
Review by Heather Froeschl
Can America learn from its past mistakes? How about those in the very recent past? Is it possible that we could learn something from the past words of our leaders? In a time when a lot of Americans feel that all we hear is lip service from our currents leaders, maybe we are due to listen more carefully to the past.
"Rebirth of a Realist" offers the words and wisdom of Henry Wallace and Franklin D. Roosevelt. It offers a relevant look at the Preamble of the Progressive Party Platform from 1948, which could very easily be applied to today's world. But, will we listen?
Author David Truskoff takes us back in the beginning of the book via his journal of 1947. A veteran of the war, happy to be back home but unsure of what his life would be, he hitchhiked across the country to discover himself. His rediscovery of that journal triggers memories of that time, up to the present day as memories have a way of progressing. During the recollection of those he also shares moments of politics and world affairs and brings to life the quotes of those he wishes us to pay heed to.
A work of non-fiction, "Rebirth of a Realist" reads much like a political editorial commentary. It isn't for everyone's tastes, but everyone should hear its message. We cannot sit blindly by when there is much to be done. Younger folks should read it as a means of discovering some truth about America's history through the last century, truths you may not hear about in history class. Those of the "greatest generation" will likely find points within the book to agree upon and nod over as well as others that won't be quite as they recalled.
Truskoff speaks his mind. He is a realist. He offers voices from the past so that we just might listen.
Politics Review
Rebirth of a Realist
by David Truskoff
ISBN-10: 1413438873
Review by Heather Froeschl
Can America learn from its past mistakes? How about those in the very recent past? Is it possible that we could learn something from the past words of our leaders? In a time when a lot of Americans feel that all we hear is lip service from our currents leaders, maybe we are due to listen more carefully to the past.
"Rebirth of a Realist" offers the words and wisdom of Henry Wallace and Franklin D. Roosevelt. It offers a relevant look at the Preamble of the Progressive Party Platform from 1948, which could very easily be applied to todayÆs world. But, will we listen?
Author David Truskoff takes us back in the beginning of the book via his journal of 1947. A veteran of the war, happy to be back home but unsure of what his life would be, he hitchhiked across the country to discover himself. His rediscovery of that journal triggers memories of that time, up to the present day as memories have a way of progressing. During the recollection of those he also shares moments of politics and world affairs and brings to life the quotes of those he wishes us to pay heed to.
A work of non-fiction, "Rebirth of a Realist" reads much like a political editorial commentary. It isn't for everyone's tastes, but everyone should hear its message. We cannot sit blindly by when there is much to be done. Younger folks should read it as a means of discovering some truth about America's history through the last century, truths you may not hear about in history class. Those of the "greatest generation" will likely find points within the book to agree upon and nod over as well as others that won't be quite as they recalled.
Truskoff speaks his mind. He is a realist. He offers voices from the past so that we just might listen.
by David Truskoff
ISBN-10: 1413438873
Review by Heather Froeschl
Can America learn from its past mistakes? How about those in the very recent past? Is it possible that we could learn something from the past words of our leaders? In a time when a lot of Americans feel that all we hear is lip service from our currents leaders, maybe we are due to listen more carefully to the past.
"Rebirth of a Realist" offers the words and wisdom of Henry Wallace and Franklin D. Roosevelt. It offers a relevant look at the Preamble of the Progressive Party Platform from 1948, which could very easily be applied to todayÆs world. But, will we listen?
Author David Truskoff takes us back in the beginning of the book via his journal of 1947. A veteran of the war, happy to be back home but unsure of what his life would be, he hitchhiked across the country to discover himself. His rediscovery of that journal triggers memories of that time, up to the present day as memories have a way of progressing. During the recollection of those he also shares moments of politics and world affairs and brings to life the quotes of those he wishes us to pay heed to.
A work of non-fiction, "Rebirth of a Realist" reads much like a political editorial commentary. It isn't for everyone's tastes, but everyone should hear its message. We cannot sit blindly by when there is much to be done. Younger folks should read it as a means of discovering some truth about America's history through the last century, truths you may not hear about in history class. Those of the "greatest generation" will likely find points within the book to agree upon and nod over as well as others that won't be quite as they recalled.
Truskoff speaks his mind. He is a realist. He offers voices from the past so that we just might listen.
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Fiction Review
Ecumenical Death
by David Truskoff
ISBN-10: 1413484751
Review by Heather Froeschl
Ecumenical, literally defined: pertaining to movement for universal Christian unity. When a small town has an Ecumenical Council, one could assume that there would be discord when it comes to any other religion. What David Truskoff's "Ecumenical Death" is about though is discord in the way of one group of the community opposed to another group with a splattering of racism thrown in. It is about small town politics, unhappy marriages, public issues and control over the town.
Not unlike just about any official meeting in Small Town, America, there are differences of opinion, people trying to control others and others trying to maintain control of what they've worked so hard for. The cast of characters is too large to focus on any one storyline, but the main plot revolves around a plot of land that lies adjacent to the elementary school and the desire by some to create affordable housing there. This becomes a huge issue to the neighborhood, the Ecumenical Council (who is running the show) and the businessmen who run the show from behind the scenes.
Truskoff immerses the reader into a chaotic town that just might leave you happy that you don't live there, but afraid to look into what really goes on in your own home place. The characters are realistic enough to lead you through the stories of their affairs, business dealings and idiosyncrasies. In the beginning it is somewhat difficult to follow all that is going on, all of the sub plots that contribute to the whole. This adds to the realistic feeling of never knowing who your neighbors are.
I was a bit bothered by more than a few typos and misspellings, as Truskoff's bio is only that he is the author of seven acclaimed books. I expected better. However, the purpose here is to rate the book overall and considering the art of immersion for the reader I give the book a nod of positive review.
by David Truskoff
ISBN-10: 1413484751
Review by Heather Froeschl
Ecumenical, literally defined: pertaining to movement for universal Christian unity. When a small town has an Ecumenical Council, one could assume that there would be discord when it comes to any other religion. What David Truskoff's "Ecumenical Death" is about though is discord in the way of one group of the community opposed to another group with a splattering of racism thrown in. It is about small town politics, unhappy marriages, public issues and control over the town.
Not unlike just about any official meeting in Small Town, America, there are differences of opinion, people trying to control others and others trying to maintain control of what they've worked so hard for. The cast of characters is too large to focus on any one storyline, but the main plot revolves around a plot of land that lies adjacent to the elementary school and the desire by some to create affordable housing there. This becomes a huge issue to the neighborhood, the Ecumenical Council (who is running the show) and the businessmen who run the show from behind the scenes.
Truskoff immerses the reader into a chaotic town that just might leave you happy that you don't live there, but afraid to look into what really goes on in your own home place. The characters are realistic enough to lead you through the stories of their affairs, business dealings and idiosyncrasies. In the beginning it is somewhat difficult to follow all that is going on, all of the sub plots that contribute to the whole. This adds to the realistic feeling of never knowing who your neighbors are.
I was a bit bothered by more than a few typos and misspellings, as Truskoff's bio is only that he is the author of seven acclaimed books. I expected better. However, the purpose here is to rate the book overall and considering the art of immersion for the reader I give the book a nod of positive review.
History Review
50 Battles: 5,000 Years of Conflict
by Jay Kimmel
ISBN-10: 0942893050
Review by Heather Froeschl
Covering 5,000 years of conflict is not an easy task. Doing so without coming off as a textbook is monumental. Jay Kimmel has met that goal. "50 Battles" is an interesting guide through history, beginning with The Scorpion King in 3050 B.C.E and ending with the Iraq War in 2003. Throughout the pages readers will be experience what really went on during those battles and not political propaganda that can sometimes be found in books about war.
Kimmel offers concise details to historians, military enthusiasts and general readers alike. Each battle is described in a short chapter, from one to four pages in length and includes such information as explanation of the conflict to begin with, important moments of progression and mistakes, details of battle style, moments of historical significance and the influence on the area after the war. I was most impressed by Kimmel's ability to write the text as fact, yet in a tone that draws the reader in and captures interest. I am no historian, nor military fan and I found the collection most interesting.
I was especially drawn to the battles that involved the ancient Celts and those of the Native Americans. "50 Battles" is ideal for students to have as an initial resource. The amount of research that went into the book is abundantly clear and I respect Kimmel highly for the undertaking and subsequent result. Let everyone who reads the book learn from our mistakes - meaning that I hope that we will learn to avoid war when at all possible.
by Jay Kimmel
ISBN-10: 0942893050
Review by Heather Froeschl
Covering 5,000 years of conflict is not an easy task. Doing so without coming off as a textbook is monumental. Jay Kimmel has met that goal. "50 Battles" is an interesting guide through history, beginning with The Scorpion King in 3050 B.C.E and ending with the Iraq War in 2003. Throughout the pages readers will be experience what really went on during those battles and not political propaganda that can sometimes be found in books about war.
Kimmel offers concise details to historians, military enthusiasts and general readers alike. Each battle is described in a short chapter, from one to four pages in length and includes such information as explanation of the conflict to begin with, important moments of progression and mistakes, details of battle style, moments of historical significance and the influence on the area after the war. I was most impressed by Kimmel's ability to write the text as fact, yet in a tone that draws the reader in and captures interest. I am no historian, nor military fan and I found the collection most interesting.
I was especially drawn to the battles that involved the ancient Celts and those of the Native Americans. "50 Battles" is ideal for students to have as an initial resource. The amount of research that went into the book is abundantly clear and I respect Kimmel highly for the undertaking and subsequent result. Let everyone who reads the book learn from our mistakes - meaning that I hope that we will learn to avoid war when at all possible.
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
Fiction Review
Down By Two
by H. G. Field
ISBN-10: 1420805894
review by Heather Froeschl
John Van Bruyk is a young man with a passion for basketball, and movies. He dreams of being the next Larry Bird and is known by his teammates to take on the roles of his star athlete heroes when on the court. He might reenact a play he'd seen on the NBA and just as likely would provide running commentary from the bench or bleachers, imagining the players were the big stars he admired. But there is more to Van Bruyk than B ball. Besides being able to hold a conversation about the cinema like a 40 year old, he has a nose for uncovering acts of injustice...things that affect his community, his school, and his bank president dad.
John Van Bruyk befriends Jimmy D'Annunzio, a goalie for the nearly outlawed local hockey team. When Jimmy knocks the stuffing out of an opposing player one game, the school board has a fit. Jimmy's dad is the hockey coach and Jimmy could get a scholarship û he's that good. But things look bad for the prospect of hockey. Things look even worse when John shares his theory of kickbacks, collusion and conspiracy between the bank, an ice rink and the school board.
Friendship bonds and the two young men find themselves helping each other out. When John takes on a job assisting in an archeological dig, an exploration into historic significance on a local piece of land, he uncovers more than he should. Being the friend that he is, he enlists Jimmy to create and execute a plan to uncover the truthàto his dad, to the historical society, to the media and to the police.
"Down by Two" is an enjoyable fast-paced read of young men coming into their own selves. The book holds scenes of raw basketball excitement as well as budding romantic thoughts. It is an insight into the minds of adolescents, jocks, and the relationship between boys and their families. The plot was well developed and reads smoothly. My only complaint is the common presence of punctuation errors. Easily fixed, and easily overlooked by the reader. I trust that high school males will enjoy the book while the girls may want to read it to see what makes guys tick. "Down by Two" is a well-done piece of work.
by H. G. Field
ISBN-10: 1420805894
review by Heather Froeschl
John Van Bruyk is a young man with a passion for basketball, and movies. He dreams of being the next Larry Bird and is known by his teammates to take on the roles of his star athlete heroes when on the court. He might reenact a play he'd seen on the NBA and just as likely would provide running commentary from the bench or bleachers, imagining the players were the big stars he admired. But there is more to Van Bruyk than B ball. Besides being able to hold a conversation about the cinema like a 40 year old, he has a nose for uncovering acts of injustice...things that affect his community, his school, and his bank president dad.
John Van Bruyk befriends Jimmy D'Annunzio, a goalie for the nearly outlawed local hockey team. When Jimmy knocks the stuffing out of an opposing player one game, the school board has a fit. Jimmy's dad is the hockey coach and Jimmy could get a scholarship û he's that good. But things look bad for the prospect of hockey. Things look even worse when John shares his theory of kickbacks, collusion and conspiracy between the bank, an ice rink and the school board.
Friendship bonds and the two young men find themselves helping each other out. When John takes on a job assisting in an archeological dig, an exploration into historic significance on a local piece of land, he uncovers more than he should. Being the friend that he is, he enlists Jimmy to create and execute a plan to uncover the truthàto his dad, to the historical society, to the media and to the police.
"Down by Two" is an enjoyable fast-paced read of young men coming into their own selves. The book holds scenes of raw basketball excitement as well as budding romantic thoughts. It is an insight into the minds of adolescents, jocks, and the relationship between boys and their families. The plot was well developed and reads smoothly. My only complaint is the common presence of punctuation errors. Easily fixed, and easily overlooked by the reader. I trust that high school males will enjoy the book while the girls may want to read it to see what makes guys tick. "Down by Two" is a well-done piece of work.
Sunday, July 10, 2005
Children's Book Review
The Seropia Crystal
by T. W. Olzinski
ISBN-10: 1420847228
Review by Heather Froeschl
Riley is twelve years old and her summer is not going as planned. Her family has gone to live at her grandmother's house for the entire summer so her father can de-stress. Her grandmother died when Riley was just a baby and the house has remained empty for all of those years. The furniture is all covered with sheets when they arrive and everything else is covered with dust. Riley's little brother finds a mouse he wants to keep as a pet, while Riley finds a mysterious wooden box hidden under the armoire in her room. In the box is a beautiful crystal necklace and a notebook filled with her grandmother's handwriting. This find will occupy her time for most of her visit.
Riley is a photographer and enjoys taking shots around the country property. Woods surround the home and in those woods live a group of animals who aren't quite what they seem. Riley has been chosen to help them in a way she could never have imagined. With the help of the crystal necklace she will make a discovery that will alter the course of things for those around her.
T.W. Olzinski has written a captivating tale for readers aged nine and up. Here is a story with mystery and excitement, fantasy and real life situations, positive morals and role models, and simple enjoyment. Riley is a very likable character that many young girls will relate to. "The Seropia Crystal" promises a sweet summer vacation read whether it is devoured during summer school break or during the course of the year.
by T. W. Olzinski
ISBN-10: 1420847228
Review by Heather Froeschl
Riley is twelve years old and her summer is not going as planned. Her family has gone to live at her grandmother's house for the entire summer so her father can de-stress. Her grandmother died when Riley was just a baby and the house has remained empty for all of those years. The furniture is all covered with sheets when they arrive and everything else is covered with dust. Riley's little brother finds a mouse he wants to keep as a pet, while Riley finds a mysterious wooden box hidden under the armoire in her room. In the box is a beautiful crystal necklace and a notebook filled with her grandmother's handwriting. This find will occupy her time for most of her visit.
Riley is a photographer and enjoys taking shots around the country property. Woods surround the home and in those woods live a group of animals who aren't quite what they seem. Riley has been chosen to help them in a way she could never have imagined. With the help of the crystal necklace she will make a discovery that will alter the course of things for those around her.
T.W. Olzinski has written a captivating tale for readers aged nine and up. Here is a story with mystery and excitement, fantasy and real life situations, positive morals and role models, and simple enjoyment. Riley is a very likable character that many young girls will relate to. "The Seropia Crystal" promises a sweet summer vacation read whether it is devoured during summer school break or during the course of the year.
Friday, July 8, 2005
Fiction Review
Bare Bones
by Kate St. Amour
ISBN-10: 141374866X
Review by Heather Froeschl
Cass Mollusso and her young son Frankie are about to start a new life in Worthington, Virginia. After losing her husband in an accident, Cass has been living on auto-pilot for awhile, taking her boy along for the ride. This small town seems to be a good rest stop, when the bed and breakfast Cass chooses happens to be the location for a meeting of folks trying to start an Interfaith Council. Cass is a Dianic Witch and knows the value of groups that promote interfaith respect.
At the meeting she finds two kindred spirits and instantly bonds with them. This is a good sign. What happens next though proves that not only is Cass meant to be in Worthington, but that she is desperately needed there. A sniper begins his evil rampage and the plot begins to get deep into the murky waters of Small Town, America. As a nurse, Cass saves the life of the town's mayor, while stealing the heart of the local sheriff.
Cass is a healer and a psychic besides being schooled in the old religion and the spirit of a young woman contacts her, desperate for help. There is a killer lurking, biding his time. Will Cass be able to convince the local law enforcement that she can be of help? Will she be able to get through to them before it is too late? Becoming deeply involved, while inadvertently finding home, adds to her desperation to put things right.
Kate St. Amour is a gifted storyteller. "Bare Bones" will captivate readers from the very beginning and have them turning pages through the night. The plot flows smoothly through the build up of tension, over crescendos of resolutions, and back up again. Readers will feel Cass' emotions and desires and root for her to make herself happy. Through it all there is an earthy groundedness that permeates the tale, a soul touching (and often steamy) romance, and a satisfying sense of justice. Look for more from Kate St. Amour as she promises to be an intriguing author that will entertain and inspire.
by Kate St. Amour
ISBN-10: 141374866X
Review by Heather Froeschl
Cass Mollusso and her young son Frankie are about to start a new life in Worthington, Virginia. After losing her husband in an accident, Cass has been living on auto-pilot for awhile, taking her boy along for the ride. This small town seems to be a good rest stop, when the bed and breakfast Cass chooses happens to be the location for a meeting of folks trying to start an Interfaith Council. Cass is a Dianic Witch and knows the value of groups that promote interfaith respect.
At the meeting she finds two kindred spirits and instantly bonds with them. This is a good sign. What happens next though proves that not only is Cass meant to be in Worthington, but that she is desperately needed there. A sniper begins his evil rampage and the plot begins to get deep into the murky waters of Small Town, America. As a nurse, Cass saves the life of the town's mayor, while stealing the heart of the local sheriff.
Cass is a healer and a psychic besides being schooled in the old religion and the spirit of a young woman contacts her, desperate for help. There is a killer lurking, biding his time. Will Cass be able to convince the local law enforcement that she can be of help? Will she be able to get through to them before it is too late? Becoming deeply involved, while inadvertently finding home, adds to her desperation to put things right.
Kate St. Amour is a gifted storyteller. "Bare Bones" will captivate readers from the very beginning and have them turning pages through the night. The plot flows smoothly through the build up of tension, over crescendos of resolutions, and back up again. Readers will feel Cass' emotions and desires and root for her to make herself happy. Through it all there is an earthy groundedness that permeates the tale, a soul touching (and often steamy) romance, and a satisfying sense of justice. Look for more from Kate St. Amour as she promises to be an intriguing author that will entertain and inspire.
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