Full Tilt (Janet Evanovich's Full Series)

Amazon.com

Mysterious and sexy, Maximillian Holt moves into Jamie Swift's life like a steamroller. She's the owner of a small town newspaper and he's a notorious, brilliant billionaire--what could they possibly have in common? Apparently quite a lot, for besides their mutual affection for Max's airhead sister Deedee and his investment in Jamie's struggling business, they share an explosive sexual chemistry. Unfortunately, Jamie's already engaged to be married. But when someone sprays her office with gunfire, only Max can save her. Now she'll have to rely on him to sort out the tangle of embezzlement, mayhem, and attempted murder that threatens her bucolic world of Beaumont, South Carolina. But if they unravel the mysteries and manage to stay alive, is there any hope for a shared future between a cosmopolitan guy committed to tracking down evil and a small-town girl who just wants a normal life?

Authors Janet Evanovich and Charlotte Hughes have paired up to create a fast-paced, wacky novel filled with eccentric characters and southern ambiance. In the time-honored tradition of such detective couples as Nick and Nora Charles (The Thin Man, After the Thin Man) the hero and heroine trade quips and parry sexual innuendos with panache while easily deciphering clues and adroitly coping with danger. Readers will thoroughly enjoy this Jamie Swift/Max Holt adventure, the first in a new series from this author duo. --Lois Faye Dyer

Book Description

He lives life in the fast lane and she's along for the ride-with no brakes......Jamie Swift has one priority in quiet Beaumont, South Carolina: running the local newspaper. Romance runs second. But with the arrival of her silent partner, the notoriously mysterious and sexy Maximillian Holt, Jamie's life gets shaken up. Max claims he's here to give his brother-in-law a vote of confidence. A former wrestler, Frankie Fontana's now taking his shots in the political ring. Beaumont could use a mayor with scruples, but what it gets is a crime-and what Jamie gets is a story that's taking her for a ride on the wild side, complete with two assassins, a washed-up stripper, and an insane poacher. Between a spray of bullets and a fast getaway could it get any more romantic-or dangerous? Max and Jamie are betting their lives on a long shot.

Customer Reviews:

Full series.......2007-09-02

Another one of Janet Evanovich's great novels. I have very much enjoyed her "Stephanie Plum" and "Full" series of novels. There is always mysteries, a little romance, trouble, odd predicatments, and page after page of exciting adventure. She has yet to fail me, I find myself waiting for a day off to start the novel because I know that I won't put it down till it's done. Thank you :)

If Nightrider had been written as a romance/chick lit. .......2007-08-22

If Nightrider had been written as a romance/chick lit. And if David Hasselhoff was an a*****e with no standards.

I laughed a couple of times, and it's not a book where I wish I had my three hours back (my standards have gotten pretty low), but I won't be reading any more by either of these authors. The best things about this book are the wrestlers, who are good characters, and fun to read about. The gay guy is funny sometimes, but he is also pretty offensively stereotyped.

What makes the story unenjoyable is the way the authors have chosen to sacrifice the girl (Jamie's) dignity and personal strength over and over in the story to try to make the male love interest (Max) look good.

In the beginning when Max kidnaps Jamie and all of her rape alarms are going off the authors makes her look and feel like an idiot for having what is the absolutely correct response. I would have had a lot more respect for the character if she'd forced the lap bar and demanded in no uncertain terms that the guy stop the car. Instead the authors tell us she is silly for wanting to defend herself and that the man is macho and sexually attractive for threatening her safety and controlling her. That's not sexy at all, it's scary as hell.

Also, for a girl who grew up in the town beside the swamp she acts like a ditz when confronted with an alligator. It's poor writing when the girl has to be made weak and stupid just so the guy can look better.

Just once, Jamie asks the right questions in the middle of the book. Sure we can make hot monkey love even though I'm engaged, but "Then what?" It's refreshing, but she doesn't really follow through. In the end all that strength is gone and she's pathetically begging, which is not very romantic.

And what was the back cover of the book talking about, steamy sex? Was that part torn out of the copy I read?

If you're trapped at an airport this book probably won't cause brain damage, but don't pick it over any other choices.

Another great book by Evanovich.......2007-03-18

I have enjoyed all Ms Evanovich's books. They are all very funny and hard to put down. Another great read!

Loved it!.......2007-03-11

I loved the adventures of Jamie and Max! After reading the first book, I immediately ordered the second book, etc. I was so upset when the series was over - I wanted more Jamie and Max! Actually, I still want more Jamie and Max, so I am hoping there will be another one.

It's hard to compare this book to the Plum series - they are both different! I enjoyed both and look forward to more Janet Evanovich novels.

An improvement... but still only getting there slowly........2006-08-31

Jamie Swift runs the only newspaper in Beaumont, but she's struggling to keep it afloat. Max Holt originally invested in the newspaper, and now he intends on stopping by to meet Jamie. The office is a complete mess, and a panicked and engaged Jamie relizes she alredy knows Max the moment he walks through the door.

Max is also visiting town because his brother-in-law, ex-wrestler Frankie, is running for town mayor. But when Frankie mentions, in his speech, that he will investigate the missing tax dollars, someone isn't happy. Now Frankie is constantly receiving threatening letters, and someone shoots up the office of the Beaumont Gazzette while Max and Jamie are inside. Jamie has nowhere safe to stay, so now she's staying at her best friend's Deedee's house. Deedee is Frankie's wife, and before Jamie knows it, she's caught up in the adventure, all while Max tries to convince Jamie to hitch with him instead.

---

This series will never compare to the Stephanie Plum series, but I must say this is a major improvement over "Full House". This one didn't seem to drag on like the previous, and the thrills began only a few pages in, rather than at the end. Thus, this book was more interesting than the last, and I suppose it was a good idea to give the series one last chance. I guess it paid off, but hopefully the next one will be even better.

Moderating to the Max: A Full-Tilt Guide to Creative Insightful Focus Groups and Depth Interviews

Average customer rating:

Moderating to the Max
Well, nearly the Max. This is quick, useful - would have loved just a bit more depth.
Unique resource to help groups brainstorm complex issues
solid overview of qualitative techniques
Jean Bystedt (author) uses this book in RIVA course

Moderating to the Max: A Full-Tilt Guide to Creative Insightful Focus Groups and Depth Interviews
Jean Bystedt
Manufacturer: Paramount Market Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0972529012

Book Description

Moderating to the Max provides you with detailed instructions for more than 20 techniques that will deepen focus group findings and bring life to a fading group. From perceptual mapping to personification, you will never again have to guess whether the technique is the right one for the occasion. This guide will enhance and broaden the work of moderators who already have a good foundation. With myriad examples and illustrations, the book's emphasis is on "play" and how fun exercises can inspire focus group respondents to reveal deeper motivations.

Customer Reviews:

Moderating to the Max.......2007-01-10

They say you can't judge a book by its cover, but this is the exception to the rule. While the information in the book has genuine value, I found it to be lacking in depth. The descriptions of the various activities were rather like a cookbook; all the ingredients are listed, and there's a description of what to do, but for my money, that's not nearly enough, when you're talking about the complex psychology of digging beneath the surface, trying to determine the root causes of behavior, the emotional triggers for respondents' choices.

I'm sure the authors are outstanding practitioners, creative and playful, and there are a number of very good exercises listed in the book. If that's all you need, this may suffice. But if you're looking for a deeper, more meaningful understanding of how to get beneath the surface with your focus group participants, I'm afraid you'll find the content comes up short. Kind of like comparing the stick figure drawings on the cover and throughout the book with a photograph or a well executed, highly detailed oil painting.

Well, nearly the Max. This is quick, useful - would have loved just a bit more depth........2006-01-19

Bystedt, Lynn and Potts have created a rare guidebook for qualitative researchers: a user-friendly introduction to a repertoire of moderating techniques that help add colour, depth - yeah, and fun - to focus groups and depth interviews.

At 142 pages, the book is short, quick and sassy. The authors have split the work into three main sections.

1) Fundamental explorational tools. In which they discuss such things as mind-mapping, storytelling, sorting exercises.
2) Laddering.
3) Exploration of emotions - where they discuss metaphors, collages, projective photos etc.

The main purpose of the book is to introduce qualitative researchers to the basic breadth of techniques they have available: beyond Q&A. Where it is billed as being useful for new researchers as well as the more experienced, I'd suggest that the target really is just the newer researchers: the book lacks the depth to really create a-ha! moments for the more experienced practitioner.

That said, this is a good book that cuts through the jargon and talks to us person to person (a very nice writing style)and would help most younger quallies to sit down and plan their discussion guides. After all, is there anything worse than staring at a blank sheet of paper and thinking - what am I going to ask? How am I going to elicit what the client needs?

The handy guide at the back helps researchers ask: I know what I want, but what technique can I use? It directs us to the right pages: quick and easy. This is a great book for the team. It saves time and helps with creativity. That's value I reckon.

Unique resource to help groups brainstorm complex issues.......2005-11-01

I love this book! I work in software usability with software engineers who are creating complex products. The moderating techniques are presented for market-research focus groups but can also be used for more general work with groups - to help teams think through complex decisions. I also use the techniques in this book with classes I teach on usability. I use them to get people to work together, and to help my students learn the power of group process in user research, The authors present wonderfully effective and natural ways to harness a group's ability to think creatively and as a unit.

solid overview of qualitative techniques.......2005-08-21

this book is a good, comprehensive, light-hearted treatment of various techniques available to the qualitative researcher.

those looking for in-depth treatment or detailed experiential stories will be disappointed.

it provides a good hands-on approach to developing the methods for the personal use of the researcher.

Jean Bystedt (author) uses this book in RIVA course.......2005-05-11

I was fortunate to be able to attend RIVA's Toolbox class and go through this book with Jean herself. It is a wonderful collection of tools and techniques and will open the mind of even the most experienced qualitative researcher. One of the pieces I found most helpful for my team was the guide in the book that links "what you want to learn" to "what tools you should use to get there". Great book for beginning practitioners and experienced alike.

Janet Evanovich "Full Series" Three-Book Set (Full House, Full Tilt, and Full Speed)

Average customer rating:

Extraordinarily disappointing
great books to read by the pool!!!
Full of Fun
As good as Plum
If you like Stephanie Plum....Don't read these

Janet Evanovich "Full Series" Three-Book Set (Full House, Full Tilt, and Full Speed)
Janet Evanovich
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

Visions of Sugar Plums
Full Blast (Janet Evanovich's Full Series)
Full Bloom (Janet Evanovich's Full Series)
Eleven on Top (A Stephanie Plum Novel)
Plum Lovin' (A Stephanie Plum Novel)

ASIN: 0312998465

Book Description

Janet Evanovich "Full Series" Three-Book Set (Full House, Full Tilt, and Full Speed)
For a limited time get the first three books in Janet Evanovich's popular "Full Speed" series, including the one that started it all, Full Speed.

Customer Reviews:

Extraordinarily disappointing.......2004-07-27

After having read all of the Stephanie Plumb novels I could get my hands on (and loving them), I decided to see how Evanavich would handle romance AND collaboration with another writer. All I can say is, I'm glad I didn't waste my money on these books but checked them out of my local library. The "Full" series was a huge disappointment. I found the characters flat and undeveloped, the dialogue dull and the plots disjointed and meandering. The "sexual tension" the writers tried to build was ho-hum to the point that I just didn't care if Jamie and Max ever made it together. I think part of the problem here was the collaboration. Clearly, the two authors' styles and vision of Max and Jaimie were not in synch with one another. I'll take Joe Morelli AND Ranger Mancuso over Max any day -- and (no doubt about it) Stephanie or Lula over Jamie. Please, please, Ms. Evanovich, stick to Jersey, stick to Stephanie and her hysterically dysfuctional family. Most importantly, stick to solo writing!

great books to read by the pool!!!.......2004-06-24

I haven't read the "PLUM" books yet so I don't have a preconceived notion about Janet's books. I started the first one, Full Tilt, while on an airplane traveling to Europe and finished it on the ride back. I love it and it made the 7 and 1/2 hours go by more quickly. The next one, Full Tilt, I read at the pool while my children play. It makes the hours sitting in the sun go by quickly. Tomorrow I'm off to the library to get the next book and look forward in drowning myself into Jamie and Max and their adventures. These books are delightful and funny. Just enjoy!!!

Full of Fun.......2004-04-07

This is a great series. The comedy and mystery are a great blend. I love the quirky characters and laugh out loud every couple of minutes when reading these books. Of course the slow burning romamnce between Max and Jamie (introduced in the second book)is also great, but mostly this is light but fun entertainment! This is a different series than the Plum books so don't come with a preconceived notion, and you will just love it.

As good as Plum.......2004-03-18

I can't believe the average rating is so low! These books are great. They are fast-reads and full of charm. They are funny, original, and they keep you guessing until the end. I am a librarian and I highly recommend them!

If you like Stephanie Plum....Don't read these.......2003-12-24

These books are not anything like the Stephanie Plum books from Evanovich's number series (ie. "One for the Money" to "To the Nines"). All these books are romances and not very good ones.

In the first book, "Full House," you are introduced to Max as a child. The romance is not very original, the humor is not very funny and the story doesn't hold much interest. I pushed through, hoping the next book would be better. The second book picks up 20 or so years later with a knight rider car and other science-fiction like products. Instead of getting better, it got more and more ridiculous. I didn't have the heart to pick up the third book.

If you like the humor and characters in her numbers series, stay away from these books. They hold none of Evanovich's charm.

The Full Tilt Poker Strategy Guide: Tournament Edition
Average customer rating:

Comprehensive

Intermediate Tournament Play

A must Read

Holdem Poker Tournament

Better than expected

The Full Tilt Poker Strategy Guide: Tournament Edition
Andy Bloch , Richard Brodie , Chris Ferguson , Ted Forrest , Rafe Furst , Phil Gordon , David Grey , Howard Lederer , and Mike Matusow
Manufacturer: Grand Central Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Card Games | Puzzles & Games | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0446698601

Book Description

The professionals of Full Tilt Poker include the best and most famous poker players in the world. Their accomplishments are unparalleled, with countless World Series of Poker and World Poker Tour championships to their names and well in excess of $100 million in winnings in private games. Now, this group of poker legends has banded together to create THE FULL TILT POKER STRATEGY GUIDE, which will stand as an instant classic of the genre and is sure to become the industry standard.

Customer Reviews:

Comprehensive .......2007-10-08

I have read over 30 poker books, and I feel that this one is one of the best all around reads. You get view points from a dozen professionals in all aspects of all the games. Definitely a must read.

Intermediate Tournament Play.......2007-10-08

If you're serious about improving your tournament play this is a good book to add to your poker library. Lots of advice from well-known pro's for the various stages of hold'em tournaments (and even a few chapters on omaha and stud). While you may not agree with everything written in this compilation, and at times it's hard to follow all of the various contributors, it's a good insight into the minds of some of the best players around!

A must Read.......2007-09-06

If you are really serious about your poker tournament strategy, so you have to purchase this book. I put it at the same level of Dan Harrigton's books. Some concepts are so advanced that you should read more than once to understand it.

Holdem Poker Tournament.......2007-08-28

This is a very good book and I have added it to me Poker library.

Better than expected.......2007-08-11

I thought this might just be a quick Full Tilt hack job, but it it truly excellent. The Ted Forrest and Chris Ferguson chapters are worth the price of the book.

Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle

Average customer rating:

Bittersweet
Stirring and beautiful
Not Just For Bicycle Fans
Why isn't Dervla Murphy better known?
An unusually inspiring book for all women, a MUST READ.

Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle
Dervla Murphy
Manufacturer: Overlook TP
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Asia | Travel | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0879512482

Customer Reviews:

Bittersweet.......2004-10-10

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Murphy's humor, tenacity and bravery are awe inspiring. She's attacked by wolves (or possibly wild dogs), wakes up in a tent after going to sleep out in the open, fends off an attempted rapist and has many other thrilling adventures. In one instance, when there are nefarious characters about, she is advised to booby trap her inn bedroom's doorway with empty bottles. In her journal, she calmly notes that emptying bottles is the one thing she's really good at.

I couldn't help feeling sad while reading this book. In 1965, when this book was published, most people were probably unfamiliar places like Kabul and Jalalabad. Now, of course, in the wake of the post-9/11 bombing of Afghanistan, Kabul is a household word. Turns out, that city was once breathtakingly beautiful, as well as the country around it. Murphy's trek takes her through Afghanistan at a time when the USSR and the US were vying for control of this country. The Russians were busy providing electricity and importing goods, while the Americans seemed to approach this ancient country with the intent to raze the traditional culture to the ground and replace it with a modern one. One wonders if, if both countries had never meddled with Afghanistan, there might never have been the Taliban? In any event, this book takes the reader back to a truly relevant experience of the not-so distant past.

Stirring and beautiful.......2002-10-14

It was by accident I discovered this book, but how fortunate it was! Murphy did not just ride a bicycle from Ireland to India, impressive in itself, but she lived and laughed and played with the Prince's and Peasants she met through out her journey. Her descriptions of the people she meets and the ancient lands she cross are simple and magical.

Some of her experiences seem to belong to fairy tales, other's remind's one of Arabian Nights, and at other times, it seemed Murphy was whisked into Tolkien's land of Middle Earth with fierce and gallant warriors on horseback.

I will quote a couple of passages which highlight her sense of humor and observation.

"...But it was worth it all to rise gradually from that fertile, warm valley to the still, cold splendour of the snow-line, where the highest peaks of the Hindu Kush crowd the horizon in every direction and one begins to understand why some people believe that gods live on mountain tops."

"...when suddenly I came on the most unexpected sight-a playing field complete with twenty-two youths and a soccer ball. I know very little about soccer, but enough to know this is how it is not played. No one ever moved about trotting speed, no one ever tried to tackle anyone else, the referee never used his whistle, the ball was never headed and the two goalies sat crosslegged between the posts most of the time, looking abstracted. The real excitement from a spectator's point of view was caused by the fact that one side of the field had a sheer drop of 200 feet, so that the main object of all the players was to keep the ball from going into the ravine rather than to kick it between the posts."

Not Just For Bicycle Fans.......2002-05-20

I first read this book in the sixties in grade school. I bought the reissued edition, rediscovering it by coincidence. Ms. Murphy's journey in the early sixties is, if anything, more fascinating to read today in light of the changes in the Middle East since she travelled there. Her independence and cheerful acceptance of different cultures is refreshing. This book was written prior to the 'me' decade, and while intensely personal, lacks the self-preoccupation that more recent writers practice.

Additionally, unlike so many bicycle travelogues, this book doesn't focus on the author's bicycle! The focus remains on the journey, which renders it excellent reading for all, not just bicyclists.

This is a timeless read and one that can be revisited with pleasure.

Why isn't Dervla Murphy better known?.......2001-09-04

What a find! I'm amazed Dervla Murphy is not much better known. She has such an appealing vigor and zeal for adventure, combined with an acute eye for cultural observation and a rich capacity for description. Dervla takes one of the most audacious trips I've ever heard of, and undergoes some of the most harrowing and arduous of trials with non-showoff-y courage, such as when three heavy objects that turn out to be wolves fling themselves at her on a dark deserted road in the Balkans, or she is awakened in the middle of the night to find a "scantily dressed Kurd" standing over her bed. (In both instances her pocket pistol dispatched the dilemma without further ado.) Not only are these accounts riproaring, but she so warmly and affectionately describes the so-called "undeveloped" cultures she grows to know as she passes through remote stretches of Afganistan and Pakistan, that she quite awakens a First World reader to the narrowness of our outlook.

An unusually inspiring book for all women, a MUST READ........1999-06-22

For anyone who read and enjoyed Into Thin Air, this book will definitely hold your interest. I challenge anyone to read three pages anywhere in the book and then put it down. Half awe-inspiring adventure, half Margaret Mead among the third world, it adds up to a whole that is both fascinating and, to this reader at least, utterly compelling. Inspiring for all women, I'd call this book a Must Read and highly recommend it to all my friends and children, both men and women.

Average customer rating:

From a teacher's perspective
no tilt at all
Confronting Fears
"No Tilt!" - a collection of various junior high class reviews
Full Tilt

Full Tilt
Neal Shusterman
Manufacturer: Simon Pulse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0689873255

Book Description

Sixteen-year-old Blake and his younger brother, Quinn, are exact opposites. Blake is the responsible member of the family. He constantly has to keep an eye on the fearless Quinn, whose thrill-seeking sometimes goes too far. But the stakes get higher when Blake has to chase Quinn into a bizarre phantom carnival that traps its customers forever.

In order to escape, Blake must survive seven deadly rides by dawn, each of which represents a deep, personal fear -- from a carousel of stampeding animals to a hall of mirrors that changes people into their deformed reflections. Blake ultimately has to face up to a horrible secret from his own past to save himself and his brother -- that is, if the carnival doesn't claim their souls first!

Customer Reviews:

From a teacher's perspective.......2007-09-09

As a reading teacher, I am always looking for new and exciting young adult literature for my students. While "Full Tilt" may not be a new book, it is certainly an exiting book that I have difficulty keep in my class library. Every year, students argue over who gets to check out the book first. One student said, "Any book that begins with, 'It all started the night we died...' has to be good!" . Mr. Shusterman's book is what contemporary Y.A. literature needs to be. It is intelligent, fast paced, exciting, and a topic kids want to read about. If you are looking for a book that just about any teen will enjoy reading, look no firther!

no tilt at all.......2007-03-14

This book absoulutley sucked. If you bought it it would be a waste of money. The beginning is hard to understand the middle is slow and the ending is absoulutley pointless. This book is a waste of paper, your money and your time. All in all if you bought this book you should check into a mental home.

Confronting Fears.......2007-02-20

Blake is sixteen and incredibly responsible. His room is always clean, he is an excellent driver and he has already been accepted early into Columbia University. He will be able to skip his senior year of high school to start there. His brother Quinn is the exact opposite. At thirteen he already has metal earrings all over his face. He is irresponsible, messy and always looking for a thrill. After Blake's experience as a seven-year-old on a bus that spun out of control, Blake has had enough thrills.

One day at an amusement park with two of his friends and Quinn, Blake is given a card by the girl running one of the booths. The card has an address on it and a weird symbol. Supposedly this place is a super exclusive amusement park, open only at night, from midnight until dawn. It seems creepy and Blake doesn't really like amusement parks, anyway, so he disregards the card. Later, though, after a fight, Quinn falls into what looks like a coma. Blake is pretty sure some part of his consciousness has escaped to this amusement park, though, and he resolves to go and bring his brother back.

Thus begins a nightmare like no other Blake could have imagined. When he enters the gate of the park, he is told that he will have to ride seven rides by dawn to get out. Otherwise, he will be stuck in this place forever. The rides start off as something ordinary, such as bumper cars, but then as he rides they change into something more real and horrifying. Blake is ending up having to face all of his worst fears. Will he be able to get through and bring his brother safely home?

I loved the concept of this book! The idea of amusement park rides that force people to confront their fears is a great one, and I liked the leadup to what actually happened on the bus, which was obviously a traumatic event for Blake. I liked that Blake's devotion to his brother allowed him to face his weaknesses and fears over and over.

I didn't like the characters of Maggie and Russ. They didn't really add anything to the story and they weren't strong enough characters to really make a difference. I would have liked it better if the book was just the story of the two brothers.

"No Tilt!" - a collection of various junior high class reviews.......2007-02-08

1. Full Tilt was way too predictable. The beginning started off weird and the ending was boring and empty. The best part of the book was the middle because it was exciting, yet still only decent.
2. The book was suspenseful and thrilling throughout every chapter. The author gave us a vivid description to help us visualize the ride.
3. We thought this book was very suspenseful but it got slow toward the end which was disappointing.
4. We thought this book was a page-turner that kept us on the edge of our seats throughout each chapter.
5. Full Tilt was a fast-paced novel that successfully created alot of suspense.

Full Tilt.......2006-10-06

Blake, who has just turned 16, considers himself the man of the house taking care of his brother, Quinn, and his mother. He takes his brother and his 2 friends, Russ and Maggie, to Six Flags and they stay there for a long period of time and near the end of the day Blake meets a woman named Cassandra and she gives him an invitation to a carnival that is in a deserted part of the town. When Blake gets home, his mother brought home another boyfriend, the third one that month, and he was upset about it and so he went to his room and threw the invitation on his desk. When he woke up, he found his brother lying in the living room with the invitation at his side. His brother looked as if he had passed out. They called an ambulance, but the paramedics found nothing wrong with him and yet he would still not wake up.

As it turns out, Quinn had really taken the invitation and had gone to the carnival across town and was trapped in a mysterious "dream world." To try and figure out what had happened to his little brother, Blake came up with a plan. He talked with Russ and Maggie and they decided to go to the carnival, since they had seen the invitation next to Quinn in the living room. The three of them arrived at the carnival and asked the man if he would let them in, even though he did not have his invitation since his brother took it. The man commented that they were expecting him. Russ and Maggie went inside the carnival with him and they were all looking for Quinn together.

There ended up being rules to the carnival where they must ride seven deadly rides before dawn. If they did not survive the deadly rides, then their souls would be trapped there forever. The rides included a high-speed real car bumper car race, for example. There is another ride called Noah's Ark where they were riding a wooden ship during a tsunami. All of these deadly rides were as if they were truly real terrible situations. Maggie and Russ were in a maze and they got lost inside the maze. Blake was able to get out and beat the rest of the rides until the last ride.

The last and final ride was a real life experience for Blake. When Blake was in elementary school, he had suffered a very traumatic situation. While riding in a school bus, a car pulled along side them and pushed the bus off the side of the cliff. Only half of the bus was still on the cliff and he was unable to open the emergency exit door to free himself from the bus. After struggling with the door for quite some time, he was finally able to open it as the bus began to teeter and fall. He ultimately was the only one who was able to escape from the bus and the only survivor. After all these years later, the lady that had given Blake the invitation to the carnival was the driver of the car that had knocked the bus off the cliff. She had been seeking revenge after all of these years and had been following Blake everywhere he had gone. So, she invited him to this carnival to ensure this time that he died just like the other children had. Her plan failed and on the last ride, she and Blake made a wager that if Blake was able to survive reliving his childhood experience again, she would kill herself and would free all of the souls she had taken and that would be the end of the carnival. If Blake were to "die" on the last, then he would truly be dead forever in real life.

Blake survived the last ride with the same results as real life again. True to her word, Cassandra killed herself and freed all of the souls she had taken. Quinn, Russ and Maggie got their souls back and they were back to normal. All of them, as well as Blake, ended up being friends forever. Even though they had gone through this strange ordeal, no one believed what had happened to them.

Average customer rating:

Full Tilt
Will loose sleep because you won't put it down!!
Full Tilt, by Creston Mapes
Rock on!
Still rockin' and ready to electrify!!

Full Tilt (Rock Star Chronicles)
Creston Mapes
Manufacturer: Multnomah Fiction
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

General | Fiction | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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Dark Star: Confessions of a Rock Idol (Rock Star Chronicles)
Nobody
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Comes a Horseman

ASIN: 159052506X
Release Date: 2006-03-01

Book Description

What Good Can Become of Psychotics, Meth Users, or the Mob?

In this sequel to Dark Star, rock star Everett Lester is eager to share the redeeming power of Christ’s love with the world through his music. But reaching his family in their twisted lives is another issue altogether. His gambling-addicted brother, Eddie, and the rest of his deteriorating family greet Everett’s attempts with disdain and hatred. When the Mob gets involved, dangerous threats become a haunting reality. And when Eddie’s son, Wesley—who blames Everett for his brother’s death—hooks up with psychotic Tony Badino, the two meth-using antichrists will stop at nothing to bring Everett down and secure his demise!

I ONCE SOWED DESTRUCTION.

Now those I love are reaping pain.

The media hype is fading, and my life is no longer that of a glamorous celebrity. I’m Everett Lester, former lead singer of DeathStroke, acquitted of first-degree murder, now married, a Christian, and ready to take my story to the masses through music. Problem is, the turmoil of my past didn’t end when the reporters left.

My wife, Karen, and I have received news that has rocked our world. My brother Eddie’s gambling is so far out of control that the mob practically owns him. And Eddie’s son, Wesley—who blames me for his brother’s death—is mixed up with meth, a psychotic named Tony Badino, and a satanic voice that’s urging him to take me out.

Will my Living Water tour ever hit the road? Will former fans stop hissing long enough to hear about the transforming power of Christ’s love? Satan once used me for evil—only through God’s power can I be used for good. The question is: w ill my loved ones and I be able to survive the aftermath of a rock star’s life?

Everett Lester faces enemies both human and supernatural. Satan won’t give up his hold on Everett , his family, or his fans without a vicious fight. God’s victory is certain in the supernatural realm, but will Everett survive the earthly battle that’s threatening to obliterate him?

Story Behind the Book

“My hope is to provide fiction lovers with a page-turner read that offers an escape from everyday life. With a heart-pounding pace and a contemporary story line, Full Tilt paints readers a modern-day picture of Christ’s unfathomable love, forgiveness, and sacrifice—amid a backdrop of methamphetamines and mobsters. It also sheds light on the reality of spiritual warfare in the day-to-day lives of every person. I pray this novel will encourage unsaved readers to be reconciled to God and also encourage Christian readers to plead with their unsaved friends to be reconciled to God—not out of legalism, but out of love and compassion.”

—Creston Mapes

Customer Reviews:

Full Tilt.......2007-07-16

I think the best things I can say about this book, and its predecessor, "Dark Star," are that I couldn't put either down, and that after reading them both, I have already pre-ordered his next novel, "Nobody."

The stories were gripping, and especially in the second book, the characters were well developed. I could really relate to them. I found it very interesting to see the struggle both main characters went through, between their faith and human events.

The books were honest, not neat "everything is working perfect" kind of things. They put feet to the struggles of life, even for a person who has chosen to follow Jesus Christ. Mapes isn't afraid to confront every day issues, but he does so with real Biblical convictions. The characters are real. I enjoyed both books and look forward to more from Mr. Mapes.

Will loose sleep because you won't put it down!!.......2007-07-02

This book and the follow-up, "Dark Star" are just incredible books! I can't wait until my boys are old enough to read these books! He has already been touted as the John Grisham of Inspirational Fiction. I believe it. The books are not shallow, they are "meaty" and very well written! I buy and sell my books at a used book store. These two books I am keeping! I can't wait until his next book is out! VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for anyone!

Full Tilt, by Creston Mapes.......2006-09-22

Once the lead singer of the popular rock band Deathstroke, Everett Lester was a tarnished soul lost in a haze of fame, money, drugs and alcohol. Now he's a creature saved by God's grace, rescued from hell by the dedicated, loving ministry of his new wife Karen and the miraculous workings of the Holy Spirit.

Everett has a new lease on life. He's free from jail, exonerated from wrongful murder charges, and preparing to embark on his new calling: a nationwide musical tour to use his talents to spread the gospel of salvation.

However, the legacy of Deathstroke and his old life still exists, and not only does Everett face ridicule from old fans and immediate family members, but he struggles with the birthing pains all new Christians face: how to reconcile the callings of Christ with old temptations and fears, as well as figuring out how to serve the Lord and be true to your personality and individuality?
He feels fear and doubt; experiences temptation, is wracked by guilt, makes mistakes, and despairs of ever fulfilling his new calling: taking the message of Christ and meeting people where they are; impacting people like him.

Though Everett stands firm in the grip of his new faith with Karen's loving affirmation, Satan despises the work of the good, and will do anything to stop it, resorting to weapons that are close up and personal.
When his brother Eddie comes to Everett to help pay off his gambling bets, Everett initially thinks he's paying his brother a one-time favor, however, it becomes much, much worse as he and his whole family are pulled unwillingly into the seedy crime underworld. Suddenly, the Lesters face worse things than public ridicule over his salvation: they face intimidation, violence, perhaps even death.

Meanwhile, Eddie's family is falling apart, threatening to pull Everett and Karen into a dark whirlpool of bitterness, pride, and greed, on the brink of their Living Waters tour. Eddie and his alcoholic wife Shelia teeter on the brink of divorce, their daughter Madison may never go to college to pursue her love of art because of the upheaval tearing her family apart, and Wesley - hooked on methamphetamines - blames the old Everett for dismissing two of his greatest fans, he and his younger brother David - as well as blames Everett for David's death.

Full Tilt is Creston Mapes's second novel, the follow-up to his first novel, Dark Star, which first introduces readers to Everett Lester and chronicles his rocky, often dangerous road to salvation. In Full Tilt, Mapes presents the life of a new Christian without a rose-colored lens; though saved and aware of a new truth, new Christians make mistakes, feel doubt, and struggle to square their new outlook on life with who they really are.

Mapes shows a very accurate, no-nonsense portrayal of this struggle: not all Christians have been raised in Christian homes, always attended church three times a week, made the right decisions, and gone to Bible College. Striking out as a new Christian is often a messy, gut-wrenching, soul-searching journey that is not for the timid, and Creston shows us what it is like on the other side of the tracks, where people still love the Lord as much as we do.

He writes with authority concerning the rock and roll scene and its pitfalls, dangers, and finds the right "milieu". He also highlights an important need, especially in a rapidly changing world: the need for Christians to take Christ and meet people where they are, rather than badgering them to climb a lofty pedestal of legalism they are ill-equipped to scale. Also, Mapes remembers why he's writing in the first place: to impact lives for God, and he includes a very helpful devotional reader's guide at the end of the novel.

The climax of the novel wraps up a little quickly and a few loose-ends are left untied, but those could easily be used as jumping off points for another sequel. All in all, Full Tilt is an exciting, heartening novel perfect for everybody, but perhaps also especially for that "hard rocker" in your life that is searching for something more.

Rock on!.......2006-08-08

Following the events of Dark Star, rock star Everett Lester is a new creature in Christ -- and eager to share what he has found with the world. But before he can kick off the "Living Water" tour, Everett has to deal with disgruntled ex-fans, a distrustful family, a gambler brother now in deep with the mob, and psychotic meth users who blame Everett for his nephew's death. Through it all, author Creston Mapes does an excellent job of ratcheting up the tension in every scene. He creates a compelling dillema for ex-rock star Everett Lester -- in the middle of building his new life, plagued by doubts, and learning to lean on God as the world around him keeps trying to drag him back down.

Still rockin' and ready to electrify!!.......2006-06-21

There are lots of times when an author comes out with an awaited sequel, and he delivers. But the author doesn't deliver with the intensity you were expecting! Creston Mapes goes above and beyond! He takes "Full Tilt", and pushes it to complete full throttle!! Slow down you say? Creston Mapes was just getting ready to punch the gas harder!

Everett Lester was unforgettable in "Dark Star", and now he's back. Oh, and just so nobody is disappointed since he gave his life to Christ, he's still ready to rock! He's just waiting to kick off his Living Water tour. But he's got an older brother who has some trouble, and on top of that, a nephew who has troubles of his own. His nephew, Wesley, blames Everett for his brother, David's death. And as things threaten to really mess things up and spiral out of control, he still has his wife, Karen on his side. Oh yeah, and they still have God. You've gotta have God when the mob's after you!

So, you can be sure that there will be drugs involved. This is a true testing of the faith. I appreciate the fact that Creston Mapes can get for real with his writing. There are a few out there who seem to hold back just a bit so others won't get offended. You won't see this with Mapes. You see real situations, real people, and real pain. You see the real desire for a real Risen Lord!! This is about having faith in YOUR faith, and having hope in YOUR hope, which should be Jesus Christ. So, was this worth it? You can bet on it! Will you be able to put it down? Don't bet on it. Mapes is still rockin' in this 2nd installment. Just see if it doesn't electrify!

Full-Tilt Boogie: Essential Coaching For Living Full-Blast

Average customer rating:

Outstanding Book!

Full-Tilt Boogie: Essential Coaching For Living Full-Blast
John Hanley Jr.
Manufacturer: Xlibris Corporation
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Happiness | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1413471374

Book Description

"Hanley has given us a surprisingly inspiring self-help book, an adventure in being. Informal, energetic and wise, Full-Tilt Boogie has the look and feel of a winner." George Leonard, author of Mastery and The Way of Aikido "Hanley has composed a

Customer Reviews:

Outstanding Book!.......2006-02-25

This book is short, simple and incredibly profound. Hanley's easy conversational manner helps convey what might be some difficult philosophical concepts.

This is not just another self-help book (like we need another one of those!). The perspective and paradigm Hanley portrays is transformational. The experience one has in reading this book is a profound sense of relief and peace. This book deserves to be read and re-read often.

Full Tilt: From Dublin to Delhi with a Bicycle

Average customer rating:

Full Tilt: From Dublin to Delhi with a Bicycle
Dervla Murphy
Manufacturer: John Murray
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Women | Specific Groups | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Travel | Writing | Reference | Subjects | Books

General | Sports | Subjects | Books

Afghanistan | Asia | Travel | Subjects | Books

Essays & Travelogues | Reference & Tips | Travel | Subjects | Books

Iran | Middle East | Travel | Subjects | Books

General | Travel | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0719565146

Book Description

Shortly after her tenth birthday, Dervla Murphy decided to cycle to India. Almost 20 years later, she set out to achieve her ambition. Her epic journey began during the coldest winter in memory, taking her through Europe, Persia, Afghanistan, over the Himalayas to Pakistan, and into India. This captivating account—Murphy’s first—is an enchantment that holds the reader to the final page.

Full tilt to the NFL: Steel Valley heroes

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Full tilt to the NFL: Steel Valley heroes
Ron Rotunno
Manufacturer: Steel Valley Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

General | Sports | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0936369515

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