A Season in the Highlands : Unfinished Business / Fall from Grace / Cold Feet / The Matchmaker / The Christmas Captive

Book Description

Love that grows among the heather is enchanted indeed...blessed with the misty magic and timeless passion of fair Scotland!

New York Times bestselling author Jude Deveraux unravels a ghostly murder mystery in an ancient Scottish castle. National bestselling author Jill Barnett decrees all is fair in love -- when a rollicking Highland clan war leads an impetuous lass to kidnap the wrong man! Geralyn Dawson puts a rough-hewn Texas cowboy under the spell of a charming herbalist with some curious powers of attraction. Patricia Cabot leads a beautiful runaway to her kindred spirit -- a Scottish lord who sweeps her away to the rugged shores of the Isle of Skye. Pam Binder flings a pretty Edinburgh baker and a computer-games designer into an adventure of passion and intrigue -- inside the sixteenth-century palace of Mary, Queen of Scots.

Customer Reviews:

****SCOTTISH HEAVEN****.......2007-02-10

This book is for all of us Scottish fans. They were all great and on my KEEPER shelf. Worth buying and reading.

boring, boring, and boring.......2006-09-19

This was one of the most boring collection of stories I have ever read. I have liked most of Jude Deveraux's earlier books and thought this might be a good read. It was a good snooze. None of the stories caught my attention. I kept plugging away, hoping something would catch my attention, but no. I couldn't get interested in any of the characters, the plots were lifeless, and any romance seemed pretty much nonexistent.
Maybe I read this on a bad day, but I doubt it. I think it was just a collection of stories from authors who wrote them on bad days. No zing, no pop, no life.

Jill Barnett outshines them all..........2004-03-16

This is a five story anthology by various authors all taking place in the Scottish Highlands. Some stories are much better than others. I will note a separate rating of each below, but the average of all five ended up being 3 stars, hence my overall score of the book.

In the first story, "Unfinished Business", by Jude Deveraux, Tyler Stevens agrees to fill in at work for her niece Krissy when she takes ill. Temporarily stepping into Krissy's secretarial position leads Tyler to travel to Scotland with Krissy's boss, Joel Kingsley. While in Scotland, Tyler and Joel unwittingly stumble into a ghostly murder mystery that piques their curiosity. Investigating together may lead them to find more than the answer to an old mystery. This story was pretty good, but not what I would consider excellent. It was a worthwhile read and deserves a rating of three stars.

The second story, "Fall From Grace", by Jill Barnett was the hands down winner of this lot. This was my very first Jill Barnett read, and since discovering her here, I've now read nearly all her work. The clans McNish and McNab have been at war for some time. Grace McNish and her band of merry misfits mistakenly ambush and capture the wrong man. Colin Campbell, Earl of Argyll, was on a diplomatic journey investigating the McNab/McNish clan war when Grace "captured" him. After catching a glimpse of the wild Scottish beauty, he decided to remain in her custody to be near her, and gather information for his investigation. This wonderful story is full of humor. From one clan member who is half deaf and misunderstands even simple instructions, to another who can't hit the side of a barn with the bow and arrow. I laughed out loud too many times to count. This story also contains the steamiest love scene of the entire book. After everything I've read by Ms. Barnett, this is still a favorite. Definitely a five star read.

"Cold Feet", penned by Geralyn Dawson, is the next entry. Texas cowboy, Rand Jenkins, gets lost in the snow-covered moors en route to a castle in the Highlands. Stopping off at a cottage for directions, he meets Annie Munro, a healer who is considered a witch by the locals. Rand ends up spending more time with the lovely Annie than he had planned. For some unknown reason, every cat in the surrounding area is attracted to Rand who subsequently develops an allergic reaction. Using her knowledge of herbs and potions, Annie attempts to ease his suffering. While Rand is fending off felines and trying to get rid of his itching, he begins to get an itch for Annie. This was my least favorite story. It just seemed too unrealistic and didn't hold my attention. I would give this one two stars.

"The Matchmaker" by Pam Binder is story number four. Kathleen MacKenzie owns a bakery in the Scottish town of Edinburgh. When American businessman Duncan MacGreggor leaves his wallet at her establishment, Kathleen sets out to return it. Catching up to him in the elevator of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, she hands him the wallet. Magically they are catapulted back in time to the sixteenth century where Mary, Queen of Scots still inhabited the castle. Now, together they must find their way back to their own time. I wasn't greatly impressed with this novella either. It seemed a little too far-fetched to be believable. I would rate it two stars as well.

Last, but not least, is "The Christmas Captive" by Patricia Cabot. Lady Mairi has fled her guardian's home to escape his rule, and his intent to marry her. Physician, Niall Donnegal, whose brother is the new Duke of Camden, finds Mairi who was injured during her flight. Not knowing she is related to his dreaded enemy, he takes her to his home to recuperate. Their relationship quickly grows. But they must deal with the curse she believes is real, and her guardian's wrath, in order to remain together. This story was quite enjoyable and an above average read. It earns a rating of four stars from me.

At the time I read this book, Jude Deveraux was the only author familiar to me. Her story here was better than the full-length novel I had already read. Overall, three of the stories were worth reading - Jude Deveraux, Jill Barnett, and Patricia Cabot. I would say three out of five would make this collection worth picking up. And with each entry being approximately 100 pages, no one story takes long to read.

boring.......2003-10-14

I expected a lot more out of this book, especially from Jude. I couldn't even get through half of the stories before I gave up on it and marked it off as a wasted $3. Don't bother with it, you will probably fall asleep before you can finish it.

wonderful anthology.......2002-01-19

I'll admit that as a big fan of Diana Gabaldon's OUTLANDER series I'm drawn to Scottish based romance. I bought the collection knowing nothing of anyone but Jude Deveraux, but if this is any example of their work I'll be hitting the search button after this review is finished. The book of 5 novellas was a wonderful escape from home and work.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS sneaks a ghost story into a sassy romance between 2 people who upon first glance couldn't be more wrong for each other.-- Tyler Stevens is convinced Joel Kingsley is completely wrong for her young cousin. Krissy is terribly infatuated with her older boss and despite Tyler's efforts to convince her otherwise, the girl thinks she's in love. Going to Scotland was Krissy's idea. If Tyler took her cousins place on the business trip she could keep an eye on Mr Kingsley for her while she recouperates from her terrible cold. What Tyler didn't count on was that "Old Mr. Kingsley" wouldn't be that old...in fact he was rather appealing. Having them thrown together to solve a centuries old mystery (complete with ghosts) only complicates an already tricky situation.

FALL FROM GRACE's humor really got to me. I felt so silly laughing out loud in the breakroom at work, but then that's what I needed the breakroom for....a break.---Grace McNish was fiercly protective of her clan after years of their being subjected to the McNab's theiving and raiding. When one of the McNab sons falls into her hands she and her rag-tag band of highland "merry-men" think they have it made. Ransom. One problem. He's not who they think he is.

COLD FEET who could resist a cowboy from Texas in the first place. This story had all of the things I love humor, romance and a bit of the supernatural.--Rand Jenkins is lost on the Scottish moors. He's supposed to be guiding his friends bride to the ancestral home, but as a Texan he's a fish out of water. Rand stumbles upon the cottage of a friendly local woman who takes them in out of the cold. She claims she's a witch and when strange things start happening to Rand he's convinced she has put a spell on him....and she has in more ways than one.

THE MATCHMAKER has modern business owner Kathleen MacKenzie fending off the efforts of the local matchmaker Harriet. She doesn't need a husband and even if she did she could find him all on her own. For example, the handsome American who stops by every morning for coffee and a scone. Harriet will not be thwarted. A little coaxing and (of course) a little magic will throw the hesitant couple into the past where they are not only fighting their feelings for each other they are fighting for their lives in the time of Mary, Queen of Scots.

THE CHRISTMAS CAPTIVE was read at the perfect time of the year...well Christmas of course. Mairi is on the run from her fiance. Niall is more than happy to keep her hidden after discovering the young runaway on his families lands cowering inside a hollowed out tree. She's full of secrets and a mysterious past that the logical physicain refuses to beleive. When her fiance comes looking for her, the Scottish lord has to deal with a murderous enemy when he admits that his soul mate will be staying right where she is... with him.

Book Description

Listen to a short interview with Jeffrey A. Engel
Host: Chris Gondek | Producer: Heron & Crane

In a gripping story of international power and deception, Jeffrey Engel reveals the "special relationship" between the United States and Great Britain in a new and far more competitive light. As allies, they fought communism. As rivals, they locked horns over which would lead the Cold War fight. In the quest for sovereignty and hegemony, one important key was airpower, which created jobs, forged ties with the developing world, and, perhaps most importantly in a nuclear world, ensured military superiority.

Only the United States and Britain were capable of supplying the post-war world's ravenous appetite for aircraft. The Americans hoped to use this dominance as a bludgeon not only against the Soviets and Chinese, but also against any ally that deviated from Washington's rigid brand of anticommunism. Eager to repair an economy shattered by war and never as committed to unflinching anticommunism as their American allies, the British hoped to sell planes even beyond the Iron Curtain, reaping profits, improving East-West relations, and garnering the strength to withstand American hegemony.

Engel traces the bitter fights between these intimate allies from Europe to Latin America to Asia as each sought control over the sale of aircraft and technology throughout the world. The Anglo-American competition for aviation supremacy affected the global balance of power and the fates of developing nations such as India, Pakistan, and China. But without aviation, Engel argues, Britain would never have had the strength to function as a brake upon American power, the way trusted allies should.

Average customer rating:

An Entertaining Read
Hard to put down!

Hot Motors, Cold Feet
Helmut Günther
Manufacturer: J.J. Fedorowicz Publishing Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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STANDARTENFUHRER JOHANNES MUHLENKAMP VOL 1: Kommandeur des SS-Panzerregiments 5 "Wiking" und Seine Manner

ASIN: 0921991827

Book Description

This book is sub-titled; A Memoir of Service with the Motorcycle Battalion of SS Division "Reich" 1940 - 1941.

This is an exciting personal account of front-line service with the motorcycle battalion of SS-Division "Reich" from 1940 until late 1941.The author initially served as a messenger and eventually as a squad leader in the Balkans Campaign and subsequently the invasion of Russia - Operation Barbarossa - until the retreat from Moscow. He was evacuated in late December 1941 with severe frostbite to both feet.

Helmut Günther is quite a character and a natural storyteller, who writes in a very compelling style. His story is riveting, and in many cases very amusing, as he and his comrades manhandle their 600cc BMW and NSU motorcycles through some of the roughest terrain and toughest combat imaginable. This is a revealing look at what it was really like to serve in the original SS division. Many of the officers the author served with, such as Klingenberg and Tychsen, later became well-known SS commanders.

Includes over 110 black and white photographs - many previously unpublished.

Customer Reviews:

An Entertaining Read.......2006-09-15

"Hot Motors, Cold Feet" is an autobiography covering the career of Helmut Gunther, a motorcycle messenger for SS-Division Das Reich from 1940 until 1941. The writing style is entertaining and the translation is very well done, with some translation notes offering insight into potentially obscure references.

The book does a very nice job of showing daily life in the German army. I was surprised at how little training the author received before he was expected to perform his duties. For example, he didn't even know enough to clean the sparkplugs and ended up separated from his unit during their first cross-country march.

It was also eye-opening to see how accepted and common heavy drinking was in the Wehrmacht. Over and over, Helmut casually mentions that his canteen is filled with vodka, or that everyone not on watch gets drunk on schnapps and starts singing. This free-flowing alcohol leads to several problems, such as Helmut forgetting to refill his gas tank, but it never seems to stop anyone from drinking.

Other memorable occurances in the book include the sheer number of vehicle accidents the division has even during routine maneuvers (perhaps related to the drinking), the amazing shortages of spare parts, inner tubes, etc. that the German army suffered from, and how often the division was scattered and unaware of where its component parts were. The motorcycle messengers, unreliable as they were, played a vital role in keeping everyone connected.

The only negative of the book is the lack of detailed combat information. Helmut is great at sharing entertaining stories about his unit, but comes up short when describing his encounters with the Russians. Obviously, he had other things on his mind when the bullets were flying, but anyone looking for detailed orders of battle or graphic descriptions of fighting will be disappointed.

Hard to put down!.......2005-05-10

Waffen-SS Private Helmut Gunther didn't start off his transfer as a dispatch rider to the Das Reich Division motorcycle battalion with much confidence...he'd never ridden a bike before! Fortunately one of his new comrades took pity and gave him a midnight crash course in how to start, shift, steer and brake for the coming morning inspection of the new dispatch section. After a shaky start, Helmut did well enough in his required riding demonstration until it was time to stop...he only used the front brakes resulting in a trip over the handlebars and a hard landing on his backside!

That was the first of many falls for Helmut and his buddies as their on-the-job-training continued, and even as they became proficient drivers they were constantly challenged by traffic, bad/non-existent roads, mud, weather and finally combat conditions. From the "old hands" he learned many survival techniques for an enlisted man such as how a phony breakdown near a tavern could let a rider rest his bones and also quench his thirst. He also discovered that in combat, real breakdowns were often a life and death matter as dispatch riders were often in desolate contested areas miles from friendly forces. He grew to love his BMW 600 and felt superior (as did all the dispatch riders) to the rest of the battalion who drove the 3-wheel side car model. When his old "war horse" was finally destroyed in Russia, he almost wept.

From training in France in 1940 to combat in the Balkans and Russia, Helmut writes a detailed account of his adventures, feelings, observations and about the men, NCOs and officers of his unit with style and humor. Unlike the Hollywood version of SS soldiers, Helmut and his comrades were not die-hard Nazis or monsters but were typical 19 year old soldiers of the type found in any Western army...those who love the adventure but have to put up with restrictive military life. I have read many WWII memoirs and this is one of the best. I am pleased to hear that Vol. II of Helmut's memoirs (from his evacuation from Russia in December, 1941 to the end of the war) is scheduled to be published at a later date...I will buy it.

Hot Tropics and Cold Feet (Women of Faith Fiction #14)

Average customer rating:

A MUST read for anyone who loves good fiction writing.
Chocolate and more chocolate
This won't stop readers from enjoying another zany adventure of the Latte Girls.
Hot Tropics and Cold Feet
Hilarious!

Hot Tropics and Cold Feet (Women of Faith Fiction #14)
Diann Hunt
Manufacturer: Thomas Nelson
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Hot Flashes and Cold Cream
RV There Yet? (Women of Faith Fiction #13)
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ASIN: 1595541934

Book Description

When the going gets tough, the tough hit the beach.

After years of being single, Lily's about to head down the aisle again. But just as she's about to take the plunge, she gets cold feet--ice cold.

To calm her pre-wedding jitters, Lily and her girlfriends take off on a getaway to Siesta Key, Florida. Harkening back to younger days, they stalk Donny Osmond, get tattoos (henna!), and turn the heads of local studs. But not far from any of their minds are the challenges of midlife: grown children coming home to roost, husbands in midlife crisis mode, and--could it be?--a first-time pregnancy at forty-five.

The "girls" all have their baggage in tow, but the salty air and laughing with friends is just what the doctor ordered--if they can weather the hot flashes until wedding bells ring!

Customer Reviews:

A MUST read for anyone who loves good fiction writing........2007-09-15

Hot Tropics and Cold Feet is probably the best book I've read. The Story introduces you to 4 friends who embark on a vacation/adventure in an attempt to help one of the friends figure out if her coming marriage is what she truly should do. Their escapades are the kind that makes you wish you could be a part of this awesome adventure and friendship. This book has the most fun, real, lovable, relatable characters I've ever read. I laughed my head off as I read, getting to know their special characteristics, quirks and yes, even flaws!!

I happen to be a Donny Osmond fan and he is mentioned in the book as the girls attempt to "stalk" or find him wherever they go. Not only did that make the book all the more fun for me, but for anyone who has had a huge crush on a celebrity, the happenings that surround that side of the story line are truly the funniest things I've ever read!! I laughed until I cried.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough!! Diann Hunt has truly become an absolute favorite author and no library should be without her books, especially this one!!

Chocolate and more chocolate.......2007-08-04

I love reading new authors that I haven't read before. Diann Hunt's book "Hot Tropics and Cold Feet" was funny, page turning and a joy to read. I related well with Maggie as she always has a funny/humourous way of looking at things and dearly loves her chocolate as well as food in general. When the author had Maggie mention MnM's, I was sold!!! LOL.

This book is about friendship, life issues and how to deal with them with a little prayer, and humor. I didn't realize that this was the 2nd book that included these characters. Apparently Hot Flashes and Cold Cream is before this book. I still will read that book along with "RV There Yet?" I've been telling my friends about this book and writing down a list of who wants to read it after I'm done. God Bless.

This won't stop readers from enjoying another zany adventure of the Latte Girls........2007-06-06

If you like good, clean, mid-life chick-lit fun, then you'll enjoy HOT TROPICS & COLD FEET, the sequel to RV THERE YET? and HOT FLASHES & COLD CREAM.

The four "Latte Girls" are back, trading barbs and wit and coping with midlife. Maggie Hayden's living-back-home-again college-age son Nick seems to have a future only as a professional video game player, and he's making Maggie and her husband Gordon crazy. Nick eats them out of house and home, leaving a trail of clutter in his wake.

Her friend Jill, the fitness queen, is suddenly (and annoyingly) after the women to shape up and eat right. And although Jill is married, her "casual" friendship with a fitness trainer is raising question marks in everyone's mind. And why is the most toned of the foursome feeling a little off? Is something wrong with Jill?

Louise maintains her size-10 figure and well-maintained look while pushing Mary Kay cosmetics on everyone ("...Mary Kay skin products can keep your face as soft as a baby's bottom.") But Louise's husband's new conversion to Christianity is driving her crazy; "he's acting all superior and self-righteous." She's not sure how to cope.

The cold feet in the title belong to the widowed Lily, who is engaged to Ron ("Captain"). Her future daughter-in-law is kicking up a fuss, however, and Lily is having second thoughts. Should she come between a dad and his daughter? And is she marrying Captain because he reminds her of her first husband? Or does she really love him?

When the Latte Girls have difficult problems to solve, they like to hit the road. This time it's Siesta Key, where they do the expected things people do in Florida and a little bit more: jet ski, pedal a surrey, parasail, rollerblade, get henna tattoos, have their hair cornrowed, and make the rounds of the local tourist attractions. Maggie gets a chance to indulge her Donnie Osmond fixation at a concert, which threatens to become a full-blown obsession. Anyone who grew up listening to "Puppy Love" will relate.

When the reasons for Jill's odd behavior finally surface, the menopausal women are in for a shock. "This being friends thing can work havoc on the nerves," muses Maggie.

The plot of HOT TROPICS & COLD FEET moves along through lots of dialogue and banter. All the midlife issues are here: hot flashes, second marriages, adult children living at home, unwanted facial hair, mood swings, coffee and chocolate. Diann Hunt keeps up a running patter of jokes and asides that will tickle many readers' funny bones.

Maggie's musings on exercise provide some of the best moments: "It takes me a good fifteen minutes every day to twist, tug, bend, and work my panty hose all the way up to my waist. Trust me, once those babies are on, I've surpassed my target heart rate."

There are some Christian insider jokes ("you could be another Chondra Pierce") and a few groaners ("I redistribute my weight and can almost hear the bag groan [the suitcase, not Lily])." Sometimes, the text feels a little instructional, such as a section on sea turtles or a preachy page or two on the importance of annual exams. But, although the pacing slows toward the end, this won't stop readers from enjoying another zany adventure of the Latte Girls.

--- Reviewed by Cindy Crosby

Hot Tropics and Cold Feet.......2007-03-24

Great book, characters are wonderful, full of life, very believable! Fun loving and funny too. I'd like to find them and make them my best friends.

Neat descriptions of the plot location.

This book is just a real treat to read. Light and joyful, with some sadness thrown in - however don't despair it has a happy ending!

Hilarious!.......2007-02-11

Oh my gosh, this is Hunt's best book yet! I LOVE Maggie. And the romance in the book added just the right seasoning. I so related to the way friends are there for each other. Hunt is one of my favorite authors,and if you haven't discovered her, once you read this book you'll want to read her others.

Average customer rating:

Static kling ex-wife
Not bad
Great tense suspense; bad end
WHEN THE PAST WON'T GO AWAY...
Who Is the Villain?

Cold Feet (Harlequin Single Title)
Brenda Novak
Manufacturer: Harlequin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

Suspense | Thrillers | Mystery & Thrillers | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0373836007

Book Description

When the past won't go away . . .

The Seattle police suspect Madison Lieberman's father was the serial killer they call the "Sandpoint Strangler." Madison refuses to believe it. Her father is now dead, and all she wants is the chance to create a new life for herself and her six-year-old child.

Then she discovers something in the crawl space beneath her parent's house. Something that makes her question her father's innocence. Or the innocence of someone else who's equally close to her . . .

When another woman turns up dead, crime writer Caleb Trovato wonders whether they're dealing with a copycat killer. Or is the real Sandpoint Strangler still alive? Caleb's sure Madison knows more than she's telling, and he's determined to find out what. But he doesn't expect to fall in love -- or to lead Madison and her child into danger . . .

Customer Reviews:

Static kling ex-wife.......2007-04-07

Not a bad read ,but pretty easy to figure out the villain. Actually I couldn't stand the cops in this book. Without the proper evidence they harrassed Mr. Purcell to death. I know its very rare to have a cut and dry murder but their pursuit of this guy really got under my skin. Then after he's committed suicide, they turned to look at his sons. If Caleb hadn't gotten involved with Madison his creepy,weepy ex-wife would have gone happily on her way killing. Madison's step-brothers would have been in the same situation their dad was. Of course there was that drop of blood on Holly that eventually might have led them to the real murderer. I like Brenda Novak's writing and have enjoyed most all her books I have purchased .

Not bad.......2006-07-05

Honestly, I'm not sure what to say about Cold Feet. It was a decent book. The suspense aspect was pretty good. The whole plot was well-planned with lots of twists and turns. Novak presents readers with lots of choices as to who the bad guy is. But along that same line, I didn't like how she revealed the killer. She does a great build-up to it, and then slips this scene in there that just blatantly tells you who it is. The revelation would have been much better suited if she'd waited until the climax of the book.

Aside from that, there just seemed to be something lacking in the book overall. I'm not sure what it was, but the book didn't pull me in as other books have. It was interesting, but not overly so. The romance was so-so. Could have been better. I just expected a bit more from the book. The other Novak book I read was very emotional and sucked you in; this book lacked that pull.

Rating: 3 / 5

Great tense suspense; bad end.......2006-06-20

Madison has never believed that her father was guilty of the rape and murder of a series of women dubbing him the Sandpoint Strangler until a year after her father's suicide she discovers a box of incriminating items tied to the victims. Could her father have been the monster everyone thought him to be or could this evidence possibly point to one of her half brothers?

The Sandpoint Strangler is credited with 9 victims. When her sister is suddenly missing, Holly contacts her ex-husband true crime writer and former police detective Caleb Trovato to come to her aid. Not wanting to get any more involved with Holly, he reluctantly returns to Seattle. When it is discovered that Susan and another woman were murdered similar to the Sandpoint killings, it looks like either the wrong man was suspected or there is a copy cat in their midst.

Caleb goes to check out Madison and decides to rent her carriage house. Money is tight now that she and her ex-husband have divorced, and she has custody of their daughter. He never felt comfortable with Madison's notoriety. Lots of eye contact and stolen moments later, Madison and Caleb become lovers and soon she has him wondering if the killer is actually not a copy cat but the actual Sandpoint Strangler. As Caleb realizes that he has fallen in love with Madison, he worries about what she will think when he reveals his identity and reason for befriending her. But his relationship with Madison has shocking consequences, as she suddenly is singled out by the strangler.

Novak brings plenty of tension and suspense to this unique story. Of course, the most probable character was revealed as the killer and for that, as a reader, I felt a little cheated.

WHEN THE PAST WON'T GO AWAY..........2006-02-20

The Seattle Police suspect Madison Lieberman's father was the serial killer they called the "Sandpoint Strangler." Madison refuses to believe it. Her father is now dead, and all she wants is the chance to create a new life for herself and her six-year-old child.

Then she discovers something in the crawl space beneath her parent's house. Something that makes her question her father;s innocence. Or the innocence of someone else who's equally close to her...

When another woman turns up dead, crime writer Caleb Trovato wonders whether they're dealing with a copycat killer. Or is the real Sandpoint Strangler still alive? Caleb's sure Madison knows more than she's telling, and he's determined to find out what. But he doesn't expect to fall in love--or to lead Madison and her child into danger....

Who Is the Villain?.......2005-11-12

This book grabbed me with the very first scene and didn't let me go until the end. The premise was great. How does a family function after a member is discovered to be a serial killer? Finding the answer to that question kept me reading. And maybe I'm clueless, but I completely missed who the villian was. Well done, Brenda Novak!

The Magic School Bus Gets Cold Feet: A Book About Hot-and Cold-blooded... (Magic School Bus)

Average customer rating:

Great book to reinforce science concepts!

The Magic School Bus Gets Cold Feet: A Book About Hot-and Cold-blooded... (Magic School Bus)
Tracey West
Manufacturer: Scholastic Paperbacks
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0590397249

Customer Reviews:

Great book to reinforce science concepts!.......2007-08-08

Reading this book to my class will make the difference between birds' and mammals' hot-bloodedness and reptiles', amphibians', and fish's cold-bloodedness much easier for my third graders to understand. It also is on the school's Accelerated Reader list, so they can then reread the book on their own and can take a test on it.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to know more about animals and their characteristics.

Let's Try It Out With Cold Hands and Warm Feet

Average customer rating:

Let's Try It Out With Cold Hands and Warm Feet
Seymour Simon , and Nicole Fauteux
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster (Juv)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: School & Library Binding

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ASIN: 0689829205

The Fox With Cold Feet (Parents Magazine Press Read Aloud Library)

Average customer rating:

Clever Easy Reader

The Fox With Cold Feet (Parents Magazine Press Read Aloud Library)
Bill Singer
Manufacturer: Gareth Stevens Pub
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Library Binding

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ASIN: 0836808908

Customer Reviews:

Clever Easy Reader.......2007-01-03

Fox has cold feet and is told he needs boots. Various friends help him acquire some very strange boots, but maybe there's a better way . . .

This book has a fun story line with enjoyable characters, rhyming, and easy to read words in speech and thought bubbles to encourage new readers to join in during story time. I've loved this story from childhood and my children love it too. The story is funny and the ending is fulfilling. The length is just right for a bedtime story.

Average customer rating:

Pretty good collection
five amusing chick lit pre-wedding tales

Cold Feet
Heather Swain , Pamela Ribon , Tara McCarthy , Elise Juska , and Lisa Tucker
Manufacturer: Downtown Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 141650754X

Book Description

Say "I do" to five surprising stories of women grappling with love and marriage and whether to walk down the aisle or run away.

In Elise Juska's "Perfect Weather for Driving," Megan and Joel's sunset fender-bender makes for a great drunken story at his friend's wedding, but the reality is hardly romantic. Stuck in a New England hotel waiting for the verdict on their Volvo, the two are forced to take stock of their own damaged relationship -- and whether it's too late to fix it.

In Tara McCarthy's "Losing California," engaged surfer Alison is convinced that Michael Madsen -- a member of her favorite band -- is her soul mate. Unfortunately, he's not her fiancé. So Alison flies to Nova Scotia, where Michael lives, because she's either right or she's wrong -- and she better find out before the wedding.

The bride-to-be in Pamela Ribon's "Sara King Goes Bad" has always done the right thing but decides it's important to know what it feels like to be reckless for once. And so two weeks before her wedding, she indulges in an unforgettable night of sex, drugs, and petty crime.

In Heather Swain's "The Happiest Day of Your Life," Annie and Ben plan a simple ceremony at an apple orchard. But when Annie loses perspective -- and everything that can go wrong does -- she's forced to rethink why she wanted a wedding in the first place.

The "Emily & Jules" of Lisa Tucker's story are two lonely people who meet on an online bulletin board for agoraphobics. But when Emily is invited to her estranged brother's wedding -- and it's clear across the country -- both she and Jules may be forced to change their ways.

Will any of these heroines get to the church on time? Cozy up with Cold Feet and find out.

Download Description

" Say ""I do"" to five surprising stories of women grappling with love and marriage and whether to walk down the aisle or run away. In Elise Juska's ""Perfect Weather for Driving,"" Megan and Joel's sunset fender-bender makes for a great drunken story at his friend's wedding, but the reality is hardly romantic. Stuck in a New England hotel waiting for the verdict on their Volvo, the two are forced to take stock of their own damaged relationship -- and whether it's too late to fix it. In Tara McCarthy's ""Losing California,"" engaged surfer Alison is convinced that Michael Madsen -- a member of her favorite band -- is her soul mate. Unfortunately, he's not her fiancé. So Alison flies to Nova Scotia, where Michael lives, because she's either right or she's wrong -- and she better find out before the wedding. The bride-to-be in Pamela Ribon's ""Sara King Goes Bad"" has always done the right thing but decides it's important to know what it feels like to be reckless for once. And so two weeks before her wedding, she indulges in an unforgettable night of sex, drugs, and petty crime. In Heather Swain's ""The Happiest Day of Your Life,"" Annie and Ben plan a simple ceremony at an apple orchard. But when Annie loses perspective -- and everything that can go wrong does -- she's forced to rethink why she wanted a wedding in the first place. The ""Emily & Jules"" of Lisa Tucker's story are two lonely people who meet on an online bulletin board for agoraphobics. But when Emily is invited to her estranged brother's wedding -- and it's clear across the country -- both she and Jules may be forced to change their ways. Will any of these heroines get to the church on time? Cozy up with Cold Feet and find out."

Customer Reviews:

Pretty good collection.......2005-10-07

This is a pretty good collection of stories about women who are afraid of nuptials -- usually their own, but the last story features a woman who is afraid of someone else's because she's agoraphobic (afraid to go outside). If you like Downtown Press novels, you will probably enjoy this collection, which features all Downtown Press writers.

The first story, "Perfect Weather for Driving" by Elise Juska, was one of my favorites. Although Elise Juska's writing style is kind of slow and reflective, the plot and characters were engaging. The story is about a woman who is dating a workaholic. They have no plans to get engaged, but they're attending a wedding, and of course this makes them assess their own relationship. The woman is keeping a secret from the man.

The second story, "Losing California" by Tara McCarthy, was just okay. I didn't really like her novel, "Love Will Tear Us Apart," and this story followed the same formula: lots of stuff about the music industry, an overabundance of quick plot turns that leave you jarred, and an unsatisfying ending. If you skip this one you're not really missing anything.

The third story, "Sara King Goes Bad" by Pamela Ribon, had its good points. It's about a good girl who goes bad, just for one night. I won't give away the details but it seems as if the things she does are too easily forgiven. I know for one my husband would be very upset if I did them.

The fourth story, "The Happiest Day of Your Life" by Heather Swain, was very good although something disturbing happened in it. Heather Swain has a gift for creating a warm, cozy family setting that makes you want to read more. In this story, there's a conflict between her mellow Wisconsin family and her Brooklyn lifestyle, more specifically her plans to get married in Brooklyn.

The fifth story, "Emily & Jules" by Lisa Tucker, is a little weird. I'm not sure I would call it chick lit. Rather than dealing with women's issues, it's primarily about agoraphobia. Emily and Jules meet online through an agoraphobic group. Then Emily realizes she's not agoraphobic - she can drive around and go outside just fine, no panic attacks - but she feels the need to deceive Jules on this point so he won't feel alone.

Overall, this is worth checking out if you like chick lit or other Downtown Press books. If you're going to skip any stories, I would skip the second and fifth.

five amusing chick lit pre-wedding tales .......2005-04-27

"Perfect Weather for Driving" by Elise Juska. PhD candidate in statistics Joel and adult fluff graduate Megan leave Philadelphia together to attend the same wedding. As they share a hotel room when they are in an accident, will they prove opposites attract?

"Losing California" by Tara McCarthy. The wedding of Colin and Allison is delayed due to a tragedy. She is secretly happy the wedding is delayed. On a whim, Allison flees the West Coast to meet her favorite singer Michael Madsen in Nova Scotia; Colin pursues.

"Sara King Goes Bad" by Pamela Ribbon. Sara has been the good girl all her life so just before her marriage to Mitchell she abandons decorum figuring this will be her only chance. However, her one night wildness leads to capers including out of this world sex.

"The Happiest Day of Your Life" by Heather Swain. Annie has ignored her upcoming wedding and has only three months to go. However, before she can analyze why she has no enthusiasm for her big day, a bomb explodes on the subway and her fiancé Ben is amongst the missing.

"Emily & Jules" by Lisa Tucker. Emily and Jules are in love, but have never met. Instead these chat line pals share in common agoraphobia. When her brother David invites Emily to his upcoming marriage to Clara, she knows she must attend. Her only hope is if her virtually best friend accompanies her, but first they need to meet.

These five chick lit pre-wedding tales are amusing with serious undertones that make for a strong anthology.

Harriet Klausner

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Cold Feet
Jonathan Rice
Manufacturer: Andre Deutsch
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0233997326

Book Description

Jo Rice draws on the hilarious scripts of Mike Bullen to make this ideal companion to the ITV series. Most of the time, the men don't understand the women, and the women don't need to understand the men. Rice brings together the male and female worlds of "Cold Feet" and how they meet in the middle, no one knows!

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