Dessert Island
by M. Margaret Neil
ISBN-10: 0595346790
Review by Heather Froeschl
It is the popular fantasy among many, to be stranded on a deserted island with a movie star. My personal favorite would be Harrison Ford, but it is likely to never happen. "Dessert Island" addresses this fantasy in a unique and humorous way. If you were stranded on a desert island, who would you want to be there with, and wouldn't you dream of desserts too? What would happen if you got sick? If it was that time of the month? If there was no water? Neil addresses all of these points and more.
Kee is the assistant to a film star, aboard a yacht where a wrap party is taking place. Her boss, also her lifetime friend, has the hots for her co-star Jack Conway. He's there on the yacht too, but is trying to ignore her come-ons. Kee flinches with embarrassment for Darcy and tries to stay in the shadows, avoiding the limelight. She would have been fine if the wind hadn't blown her dress up to a torch and caught it on fire. She would have been okay if anyone had noticed her before she decided jumping into the ocean was the only way to put out the flames. Someone did notice her jumping overboard and he jumped in after her. They would have been fine if only he'd notified someone about what was happening. No one noticed, and the yacht sailed on without them.
Making it to the tiny island was no easy task, and calling it an island is a stretch. Basically, the two landed on a rock in the ocean. How will they survive? When will they be rescued? And what exactly does one do to pass the time with a hunky movie star? When you are quite tall, slightly overweight and have low self-esteem, it isn't all flirting and flaunting. Through self-preservation, eating raw fish, a lack of cigarettes and bouts with fever, Jack and Kee come to know each other for so much more than their surface image. What will happen to them? Will they ever use the two condoms they have among their meager possessions?
Not all romance and fantasy, "Dessert Island" has its share of action and suspense. While it may appeal more to women at first glance, men will also enjoy this book. Dessert Island is a wild and fun read. The characters are deep enough to be real and real enough to come to life in your mind's eye. The predicaments they get into are not exactly what one fantasizes about in this situation but make for an entertaining story. "Dessert Island" would make an excellent movie and certainly is a great beach book. You'll laugh your way through to the end and find yourself turning pages faster and faster to find out what happens next. M. Margaret Neil has produced a satisfying tale that is full of real life issues and fantasy fun.
Friday, February 4, 2005
Tuesday, February 1, 2005
Fiction Review
BETRAYED: Murder in the Bahamas
by Robert Terwilliger
ISBN-10: 0976557800
Review by Heather Froeschl
Pirates still cruise the seas looking for easy money but they no longer bear the symbol of their trade as warning to other vessels. The average pirate today might also be your lawyer or your mechanic. In the islands there is no telling who might be out for a fast buck. If it means taking it out the average tourist's pocket, then that is what will happen.
"Betrayed" is a story of one family's encounter with island pirates and the tale of how those pirates came to be what they are. It isn't a pretty story but it is much more realistic than the postcard image the travel industry would have us envision. This work of fiction has some very real elements of life to it.
From the perspective of Chico the reader learns about the drug industry and the means people will go to, to make money. It is a kill or be killed world he lives in and he shows no remorse for his actions. On the side, he arranges for boat engines to make their way to new owners and for the deep waters to fill up with stolen hulls. A number of bodies also find their way to watery graves through the course of a day's work. Then one day, Chico's men make a mistake. They steal the boat of Viper, and Viper is mad.
It isn't just a boat the pirates steal but truly a member of Viper's family. He wants the boat back and goes to unusual lengths to find her. What he doesn't realize is that he is stepping up to face the pirate boss, the drug lord, Chico himself. Will Chico survive his own game? Will justice finally be served?
Robert Terwilliger offers a glimpse at the Bahamas that, in general, tourists just don't see. It is a dark side of paradise and unfortunately a very real flaw to the island life. Crime exists, even in a heavenly setting. "Betrayed" is a story of suspense and murder, criminal life and a love for the sea. I found the read to be fast paced save for a sometimes-excessive amount of background information on less than key characters. There are history lessons included that are interesting but could have been left out of the tale. Overall, the book is a step out of the ordinary and entertaining.
by Robert Terwilliger
ISBN-10: 0976557800
Review by Heather Froeschl
Pirates still cruise the seas looking for easy money but they no longer bear the symbol of their trade as warning to other vessels. The average pirate today might also be your lawyer or your mechanic. In the islands there is no telling who might be out for a fast buck. If it means taking it out the average tourist's pocket, then that is what will happen.
"Betrayed" is a story of one family's encounter with island pirates and the tale of how those pirates came to be what they are. It isn't a pretty story but it is much more realistic than the postcard image the travel industry would have us envision. This work of fiction has some very real elements of life to it.
From the perspective of Chico the reader learns about the drug industry and the means people will go to, to make money. It is a kill or be killed world he lives in and he shows no remorse for his actions. On the side, he arranges for boat engines to make their way to new owners and for the deep waters to fill up with stolen hulls. A number of bodies also find their way to watery graves through the course of a day's work. Then one day, Chico's men make a mistake. They steal the boat of Viper, and Viper is mad.
It isn't just a boat the pirates steal but truly a member of Viper's family. He wants the boat back and goes to unusual lengths to find her. What he doesn't realize is that he is stepping up to face the pirate boss, the drug lord, Chico himself. Will Chico survive his own game? Will justice finally be served?
Robert Terwilliger offers a glimpse at the Bahamas that, in general, tourists just don't see. It is a dark side of paradise and unfortunately a very real flaw to the island life. Crime exists, even in a heavenly setting. "Betrayed" is a story of suspense and murder, criminal life and a love for the sea. I found the read to be fast paced save for a sometimes-excessive amount of background information on less than key characters. There are history lessons included that are interesting but could have been left out of the tale. Overall, the book is a step out of the ordinary and entertaining.
Saturday, January 29, 2005
Poetry Review
calling all hearts
by rodney timms
ISBN-10: 1885473850
Review by Heather Froeschl
For everyone who knows a child, "Calling All Hearts" is a book of poetry that will reach out to you and touch your soul. What better way to reach the world and inspire than by the written word? Rodney Timms has not had an easy life and it is his mission to change the lives of those children that are suffering as he did.
Each poem is filled with emotion and caring. Each page supports Childhelp USA, an organization that helps to prevent child abuse. Each person who reads this book will come away wanting to help, wanting to make the call that can save a life. This book will deeply touch those who have been abused, and those who know them.
Rodney Timms is a survivor. His poetry is telling and straightforward. It is sometimes sad and often evokes terrible images of child abuse. It is these images that he hopes will encourage the reader to take a stand against the violence. He offers poetry of joyful love for his grandchildren and special memories of his family as well. "Calling All Hearts" is a creative and expressive outreach that will speak to the heart of everyone who reads it.
by rodney timms
ISBN-10: 1885473850
Review by Heather Froeschl
For everyone who knows a child, "Calling All Hearts" is a book of poetry that will reach out to you and touch your soul. What better way to reach the world and inspire than by the written word? Rodney Timms has not had an easy life and it is his mission to change the lives of those children that are suffering as he did.
Each poem is filled with emotion and caring. Each page supports Childhelp USA, an organization that helps to prevent child abuse. Each person who reads this book will come away wanting to help, wanting to make the call that can save a life. This book will deeply touch those who have been abused, and those who know them.
Rodney Timms is a survivor. His poetry is telling and straightforward. It is sometimes sad and often evokes terrible images of child abuse. It is these images that he hopes will encourage the reader to take a stand against the violence. He offers poetry of joyful love for his grandchildren and special memories of his family as well. "Calling All Hearts" is a creative and expressive outreach that will speak to the heart of everyone who reads it.
Poetry Review
calling all hearts
by rodney timms
ISBN-10: 1885473850
Review by Heather Froeschl
For everyone who knows a child, "Calling All Hearts" is a book of poetry that will reach out to you and touch your soul. What better way to reach the world and inspire than by the written word? Rodney Timms has not had an easy life and it is his mission to change the lives of those children that are suffering as he did.
Each poem is filled with emotion and caring. Each page supports Childhelp USA, an organization that helps to prevent child abuse. Each person who reads this book will come away wanting to help, wanting to make the call that can save a life. This book will deeply touch those who have been abused, and those who know them.
Rodney Timms is a survivor. His poetry is telling and straightforward. It is sometimes sad and often evokes terrible images of child abuse. It is these images that he hopes will encourage the reader to take a stand against the violence. He offers poetry of joyful love for his grandchildren and special memories of his family as well. "Calling All Hearts" is a creative and expressive outreach that will speak to the heart of everyone who reads it.
by rodney timms
ISBN-10: 1885473850
Review by Heather Froeschl
For everyone who knows a child, "Calling All Hearts" is a book of poetry that will reach out to you and touch your soul. What better way to reach the world and inspire than by the written word? Rodney Timms has not had an easy life and it is his mission to change the lives of those children that are suffering as he did.
Each poem is filled with emotion and caring. Each page supports Childhelp USA, an organization that helps to prevent child abuse. Each person who reads this book will come away wanting to help, wanting to make the call that can save a life. This book will deeply touch those who have been abused, and those who know them.
Rodney Timms is a survivor. His poetry is telling and straightforward. It is sometimes sad and often evokes terrible images of child abuse. It is these images that he hopes will encourage the reader to take a stand against the violence. He offers poetry of joyful love for his grandchildren and special memories of his family as well. "Calling All Hearts" is a creative and expressive outreach that will speak to the heart of everyone who reads it.
Friday, January 28, 2005
Fantasy Fiction Review
Mindlings: Encounters Within Inner Space
by Normand R. Bernier
ISBN-10: 1587363976
Review by Heather Froeschl
Enter the world of John Robis, literally. Professor Robis is invited to participate in an experiment that attempts sensory input to the extent of causing the mind to delve inward. Much like an attempt at astral projection, but in reverse. Under the direction of a benefactor and under the guidance and care of a dear mentor, John enters into himself. What he finds is a whole world, a kingdom of mindlings.
The mindlings are energy, beings that are very real and are under the lordship of John but also in control of him as well. John's will, his drive, is personified in Sir William and likewise, his other personality traits come to life before his eyes. All of these interact with each other, within the realm of Robisohm, within John Robis himself. Through the experiments being performed John is able to visit his inner kingdom and sort through conflicts that have arisen. His castle is crumbling and the mindlings need guidance. It is up to John to decipher what is going on.
Through it all he is learning what creates mental illness, what reality is, what our soul's journey's entail. In the end he must make decisions that will alter the course of his own being and those of the mindlings within him.
This is a highly thought provoking novel of fantasy. Readers will see themselves in the conflicts that must be overcome by the characters and will likely learn a little something about their own lives and mindlings. The book is very well written, the story captivating and compelling. I highly recommend Normand R. Bernier's "Mindlings" and encourage readers to take a "strange journey inward."
by Normand R. Bernier
ISBN-10: 1587363976
Review by Heather Froeschl
Enter the world of John Robis, literally. Professor Robis is invited to participate in an experiment that attempts sensory input to the extent of causing the mind to delve inward. Much like an attempt at astral projection, but in reverse. Under the direction of a benefactor and under the guidance and care of a dear mentor, John enters into himself. What he finds is a whole world, a kingdom of mindlings.
The mindlings are energy, beings that are very real and are under the lordship of John but also in control of him as well. John's will, his drive, is personified in Sir William and likewise, his other personality traits come to life before his eyes. All of these interact with each other, within the realm of Robisohm, within John Robis himself. Through the experiments being performed John is able to visit his inner kingdom and sort through conflicts that have arisen. His castle is crumbling and the mindlings need guidance. It is up to John to decipher what is going on.
Through it all he is learning what creates mental illness, what reality is, what our soul's journey's entail. In the end he must make decisions that will alter the course of his own being and those of the mindlings within him.
This is a highly thought provoking novel of fantasy. Readers will see themselves in the conflicts that must be overcome by the characters and will likely learn a little something about their own lives and mindlings. The book is very well written, the story captivating and compelling. I highly recommend Normand R. Bernier's "Mindlings" and encourage readers to take a "strange journey inward."
Monday, January 24, 2005
Fiction Review
Slumach: The Lost Mine
by Edgar Ramsey
ISBN-10: 1594579970
Review by Heather Froeschl
Gold fever can be deadly. The lost mine of Slumach calls to those who desire the untold riches of the legendary tales. But there is a curse upon the mine and those who seek it. Their worst nightmares come to life as they trek closer to the hidden gold and most never make it out of the rugged mountain terrain alive.
Slumach was executed for murder in 1891. In the previous months it is said that he would come into town with bags of gold nuggets. Anyone who tried to follow him was never seen alive again. Just as his execution was being fulfilled, he muttered a curse..."When I die, the mine dies." And so it was, so it seems.
The story follows Professor Paul Gregory and his young assistant Bev Dayton, and also a couple of lowlife criminals, Kevin McCarthur and Randy Smith, as they follow through with intentions to find Slumach's lost mine. Do they beat the odds and come away with bags of gold? Time will tell, but they do find the realization of their own nightmares.
The story is an interesting one and a temptation to anyone who has ever wondered about gold fever. The author has created very deep backgrounds for the characters so that the reader will truly understand the nature of the curse in the end. However, in order to do this each character goes through numerous flashbacks and very detailed memories that can be confusing to the reader. Jumping from character to character and memory to memory was a bit mind boggling, though each was like a story in itself and demonstrates the author's talent for short story telling. Edgar Ramsey shows a knack for detail and description. My main complaint is with the flow of the stories, and more than a handful of typos and misspellings.
Overall, the book is a good read if you can get through the head hopping.
by Edgar Ramsey
ISBN-10: 1594579970
Review by Heather Froeschl
Gold fever can be deadly. The lost mine of Slumach calls to those who desire the untold riches of the legendary tales. But there is a curse upon the mine and those who seek it. Their worst nightmares come to life as they trek closer to the hidden gold and most never make it out of the rugged mountain terrain alive.
Slumach was executed for murder in 1891. In the previous months it is said that he would come into town with bags of gold nuggets. Anyone who tried to follow him was never seen alive again. Just as his execution was being fulfilled, he muttered a curse..."When I die, the mine dies." And so it was, so it seems.
The story follows Professor Paul Gregory and his young assistant Bev Dayton, and also a couple of lowlife criminals, Kevin McCarthur and Randy Smith, as they follow through with intentions to find Slumach's lost mine. Do they beat the odds and come away with bags of gold? Time will tell, but they do find the realization of their own nightmares.
The story is an interesting one and a temptation to anyone who has ever wondered about gold fever. The author has created very deep backgrounds for the characters so that the reader will truly understand the nature of the curse in the end. However, in order to do this each character goes through numerous flashbacks and very detailed memories that can be confusing to the reader. Jumping from character to character and memory to memory was a bit mind boggling, though each was like a story in itself and demonstrates the author's talent for short story telling. Edgar Ramsey shows a knack for detail and description. My main complaint is with the flow of the stories, and more than a handful of typos and misspellings.
Overall, the book is a good read if you can get through the head hopping.
Thursday, January 20, 2005
Fiction Review
American Warrior
by James Snyder
ISBN-10: 0741423200
Review by Heather Froeschl
"American Warrior" is a novel of a boy becoming a man, coming to know himself through an intense life full of abuse, self defense and ultimately overcoming his fears and desires to do what must be done to survive.
Paul Brett gets slapped around by his dad and attacked by neighborhood boys until he is convinced to become what he sees an old Dutchman reveal as he breaks up a fight. Can he learn to be such a warrior? For years he practices, trains with the old man, and he develops a sense of self through it all. Training in the military is but another intense step toward Paul's coming of age and he demonstrates his strength while forming a fast friendship. He continues his training until it is time to go to Vietnam.
There, Paul joins a Top Secret Forces group known as SOG, Studies and Observations Group. It is here that the novel takes a truly unique turn. This is not your typical Vietnam story. The author explores the illegal aspects of the war; the campaign occurring across the Laotian border along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. The writing is intense and in depth with moments of pure terror and deep sadness.
Paul's life is not an easy one to read about. The war is not the end of the tale, and what becomes of him is terrible and intense. Can he survive? Will he ever be able to go home and hold his wife in his arms once more?
James Snyder had written a deeply thoughtful story. His treatment of the war is respectful and realistic. The plot is well designed and fulfilling. Snyder's characters are full of human flaws and hopeful growth, just as they should be.
by James Snyder
ISBN-10: 0741423200
Review by Heather Froeschl
"American Warrior" is a novel of a boy becoming a man, coming to know himself through an intense life full of abuse, self defense and ultimately overcoming his fears and desires to do what must be done to survive.
Paul Brett gets slapped around by his dad and attacked by neighborhood boys until he is convinced to become what he sees an old Dutchman reveal as he breaks up a fight. Can he learn to be such a warrior? For years he practices, trains with the old man, and he develops a sense of self through it all. Training in the military is but another intense step toward Paul's coming of age and he demonstrates his strength while forming a fast friendship. He continues his training until it is time to go to Vietnam.
There, Paul joins a Top Secret Forces group known as SOG, Studies and Observations Group. It is here that the novel takes a truly unique turn. This is not your typical Vietnam story. The author explores the illegal aspects of the war; the campaign occurring across the Laotian border along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. The writing is intense and in depth with moments of pure terror and deep sadness.
Paul's life is not an easy one to read about. The war is not the end of the tale, and what becomes of him is terrible and intense. Can he survive? Will he ever be able to go home and hold his wife in his arms once more?
James Snyder had written a deeply thoughtful story. His treatment of the war is respectful and realistic. The plot is well designed and fulfilling. Snyder's characters are full of human flaws and hopeful growth, just as they should be.
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