The Templar Legacy: A Novel

Book Description

The ancient order of the Knights Templar possessed untold wealth and absolute power over kings and popes . . . until the Inquisition, when they were wiped from the face of the earth, their hidden riches lost. But now two forces vying for the treasure have learned that it is not at all what they thought it was–and its true nature could change the modern world.

Cotton Malone, one-time top operative for the U.S. Justice Department, is enjoying his quiet new life as an antiquarian book dealer in Copenhagen when an unexpected call to action reawakens his hair-trigger instincts–and plunges him back into the cloak-and-dagger world he thought he’d left behind.

It begins with a violent robbery attempt on Cotton’s former supervisor, Stephanie Nelle, who’s far from home on a mission that has nothing to do with national security. Armed with vital clues to a series of centuries-old puzzles scattered across Europe, she means to crack a mystery that has tantalized scholars and fortune-hunters through the ages by finding the legendary cache of wealth and forbidden knowledge thought to have been lost forever when the order of the Knights Templar was exterminated in the fourteenth century. But she’s not alone. Competing for the historic prize–and desperate for the crucial information Stephanie possesses–is Raymond de Roquefort, a shadowy zealot with an army of assassins at his command.

Welcome or not, Cotton seeks to even the odds in the perilous race. But the more he learns about the ancient conspiracy surrounding the Knights Templar, the more he realizes that even more than lives are at stake. At the end of a lethal game of conquest, rife with intrigue, treachery, and craven lust for power, lies a shattering discovery that could rock the civilized world–and, in the wrong hands, bring it to its knees.

From the Hardcover edition.

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Customer Reviews:

The Rev. Berry.......2007-09-26

I purchased the audio book version for a road trip and around the 4th or 5th disc began fast forwarding chapters. The action and loose plot, along with mostly weak characters -- that whole cotton thing is pretty annoying-- were decent until Berry began preaching his disdain for the opium for the masses beliefs. Why do writers seem to have a need to ruin good stories with long periods of sticky shove-it-in-your-face beliefs, outlandish lies and false conclusions. Stick to action and mystery, and leave the religious "education" to those with an ounce of true knowledge, not an axe to grind.

Excruciating..........2007-09-17

I read this book a few months after reading Berry's "The Third Secret", which I enjoyed and gave a highly-rated review. Unfortunately, this book was nowhere near as enjoyable. I had to force my way through it after stopping a half-dozen times.

Characters were inconsistent, exposition was superfluous, and the pacing was erratic. "Templar Legacy" was as bad as "Third Secret" was good.

I gave it two stars because I still believe Berry put in much hard work in researching this book and I can appreciate that.

Pretty Bad.......2007-09-14

This has got to be one of the worst books I have ever read. Come on now, 400 monks at a secret monastery in France? Do they even have 400 monks in all of France today? And one of them crazy enough to try and wreak vengeance on Phillip IV of France? Who has been dead for 700 years? And this nutcase gets elected Master of the monastery? And I don't care if they are Templars, but I cannot imagine any monastery teaching the Gospel of Thomas to its monks. From the parts that I have read of that Gospel, it sounds like it was put together by some ancient con artist. If you're going to write about the Catholic church, at least find out about it before you start making stuff up. The plot of the book does move along, but the whole premise is weak, the dialogue lame and the characters barely believable.

Okay Novel.......2007-09-01

The Templar Legacy has an interesting premise, however it never excited me. There's mystery, historical information and lots of action . The story is flat. I did not care about any of the people in the story and Mark the good "brother" didn't seem to possess any kind of spirituality.
I was entertained but the novel lacked spice.

FANTASTIC!.......2007-08-26

This was the first book that I have read by Steve Berry. I picked it up on a whim when vacationing in Ireland, and I had it read before the end of my vacation!!! It starts out fast and remains full of twists and turns and an excellent historical mystery!! Berry has done his homework on the Templars, and I am quite impressed!! I read his other books, "The Amber Room", and "The Romanov Prophecy" and enjoyed them immensely! I place The Templar Legacy over Dan Browns "The Davinci Code".

The Quilter's Legacy (Elm Creek Quilts Novels)

Average customer rating:

quilters legacy
The Quilter's Legacy
OOPS!
Riveting
Excellent

The Quilter's Legacy (Elm Creek Quilts Novels)
Jennifer Chiaverini
Manufacturer: Plume
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0452284678
Release Date: 2004-03-30

Book Description

The New York Times bestselling fifth novel in the Elm Creek Quilt series

Resolving to locate her mother's heirloom quilts after so many years, Sylvia Compson embarks on a cross-country investigation of antique shops, quilt museums, and other, more unexpected places, where offers of assistance are not always what they seem. And as Sylvia recovers some of the missing quilts and accepts others as lost forever, she reflects on the woman her mother was and mourns the woman she never knew.

With heartfelt honesty, The Quilter's Legacy reveals the tenuous connections that bind generations and celebrates the love that sustains them.

Customer Reviews:

quilters legacy.......2007-06-17

I , as a quilter, do enjoy this series. Runaway quilt has been my favorite so far but love to follow the characters.

The Quilter's Legacy.......2006-11-06

This book was really good. Not only am I interested in quilts, but also genealogy and this had a touch of that too! Very good book.

OOPS!.......2006-11-03

Content of the book was good- however, some of the language of all this series could have been improved. It ISN'T necessary to have swearing in order to write a book! I enjoyed all except for that!
Elaine Willard

Riveting.......2006-09-01

I flew through this book just like the previous 4 in the series. I can't wait to get my hands on the next one.

Excellent.......2006-07-09

There are two plots to this story: Sylvia Compson's search for her mother's quilts, which Sylvia's sister had sold; and the story of Eleanor, Sylvia's mother.

It needs to be remembered that the audience gets to learn about Eleanor, but Sylvia is not reading a journal by her mother, or in any way learning what we as the readers now know about her mother's life. Some of it Sylvia is able to piece together in the book, but the majority of it, only we as the readers know.
It gives us insight and understanding that Sylvia does not have. It also gave me more understanding of the rift between Sylvia and her sister Claudia.

I think this was a very good writing device. One thing I've noticed about Chiaverini's writing is that she is not afraid to introduce new characters, or change our opinions, even slightly, about existing and continuing characters. She is not afraid to let some characters move on, as they would in real life. For me, that is what makes these books so interesting, so valid and so real. People move on. People change careers, divorce, marry, move away, try new things, and sometimes stay in the same job and the same area. It's life. I think Chiaverini's books mirror life.

The hunt for the quilts was painful in a way for me. My own family has been searching for family quilts that disappeared during the funeral of my great-grandmother. I think this is a very truthful portrayal of how disheartening it is, too, to work so hard on any needlework craft, including quilting, and those who don't appreciate or understand the enormous amount of time, patience, creativiity, and work that goes into it, just letting the dog lie on it, or giving it away, or selling it. Yep, I've seen all of those in real life happen and it breaks the heart. It also makes me decide nope, I am not giving that person any more of my needlework. Too bad for them.

The adult children of Andrew seemed like an accurate and possible portrayal to me. I'm sorry to say it, but weddings and funerals bring out the worst at times in a saint. I've seen people who are normally rational, kind-hearted, dear people go into anger and say and do things that are shocking. You realize that you didn't really know that person after all. For those who say the reaction of the adult children was not creditable, I can only say that for me, it sure was. I've seen really decent, kind people who go to church and do the right things in life and are law-abiding citizens do and say some really crazy, out-of-character, nutty things when it comes to marriage or funerals or more to the point, who is getting what in a will. If you haven't experienced it, my bet is that someday, unfortunately, you'll find that you will. "It'll never happen in MY family!" are famous last words.

And that's what this book is, and what all of Chiaverini's books are for me: honest. Honesty doesn't mean a perfectly happy ending. If it was perfectly happy, all of the quilts would never have been sold in the first place, or if they had been, all of them would have been found and in pristine condition.

I really enjoyed this book.

Average customer rating:

Graphic SF Reader
kitty pryde...cooler than mj!
ONE OF THE BEST ULTIMATE STORIES EVER!!!!!
He's baaaaccckkkkkkk!
A great read (as comic books go)

Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 4: Legacy
Brian Michael Bendis , and Mark Bagley
Manufacturer: Marvel Comics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0785109684

Customer Reviews:

Graphic SF Reader.......2007-09-03

Here, Harry Osborn is back at school. His father is not a nice crazy green mini-hulk kind of guy. Nick Fury puts in an appearance at Peter's high school at tells young Spidey they are watching the whacko.

They are illegally spying on him and know that he has threatened violence and mayhem and murder, but they are waiting for him to do it publicly with evidence, so web-boy is on his own until then.

kitty pryde...cooler than mj!.......2007-02-02

ultimate spider-man by bendis and bagley is one of the best series out there. not as much action and non-stop bad guy fighting, but a good mix of that and a lot of peter parker being a teenager with problems (girls, bullies, being grounded, etc.) along with his spidey life.
the series is great great great. only a few minor things that could be better:
1. i don't like how nick fury comes in and tells spider-man he's going to work his whole life for him and shield. the idea of peter being...trapped in a web? haha...well it isn't too cool. superheroes need to fight the good fight because they want to, not because shield will go and take away their superpowers (as fury has threatened) if they don't comply.
2. bendis needs to cut down on the tuchas talk. seriously if parker grew up in nyc today he'd more likely speak spanglish than yanglish.
3. geldoff.

ONE OF THE BEST ULTIMATE STORIES EVER!!!!!.......2005-08-01

The Ultimate version of Spidey tackles Norman Osbourn/Green Goblin, and makes one heck of a story! A must own for Spider-Fans everywhere!

He's baaaaccckkkkkkk!.......2005-07-14

This review is for Ultimate Spider-Man vol. 4 paperback edition: Legacy

You can never keep a good villain down. That's true for all comic book worlds, including Ultimates, which is why Norman Osborn, the Green Goblin makes his return in this addition to the Ultimate Spider-Man library. Far more twisted and evil than in volume 1, Norman is determined to either own or destroy Peter. Nor is Norman Osborn the only threat presented. Nick Fury, of Ultimates fame, makes his presence known to our favorite wall crawler, upping the level of danger for all involved. The end of the original Goblin is slightly different than in original continuity, and more touching in my humble opinion.

Bendis continues to grow and improve with his characterization as he makes these very classic characters his own. The dialog is flawless, appropriate, and flowing as always. His way of showing the madness in Osborn is brilliant, and must be seen. Once you've read those pages, re-read them. It's worth the time and it's too much to take in at once. Bendis is one of the most beloved and well known writers in the comic book industry for a reason, this volume showcases his talents well.

Bagley and Thibert also continue to grow and find their own take on the characters. Their rendition of the Green Goblin is horrible, interesting, and chilling. The human characters are marvelously human, which doesn't happen much in comics anymore.

While this volume can be read alone, I recommend having read at least vol. 1 before. It is appropriate for all ages, and is enjoyable for newcomers and seasoned collectors alike.

This volume reprints Ultimate Spider-Man issues #22-27. Highest recommendations!

A great read (as comic books go).......2005-02-20

This is a great arc in the Ultimate Spider-Man series - in my opinion, the best of the ones I've read (up to Venom - Ugh!). So much is done well here - the story, the pacing, the art; everything seemed to work well together (well, almost everything). If I could give it four and a half stars, I would.

There were two things I felt were done especially well: the portrayal of the goblin's insanity and that Peter Parker's emotions. The goblin's insanity is masterfuly done - at one point we are actually see things through his mind, and witness the manifestation of his dementia, both graphically and in narritive. It makes for quite an effective - if disturbing - scene.
And Peter Parker is finally making some sense as a character; he actually reacts as one might expect a teenager in his position to react - terrified. Super powers or no super powers, the Green Goblin Parker faces is monsterously powerful, totally insane, and, worst of all, fully aware of Spider-Man's true identity and making use of it in a threatening way. It's all done in a very convincing manner - the drawings drive the fear home.

There are other nice surprises thrown in, that help build fill out the long term character of Peter Parker, adding continuity and connectivity. The Mary Jane/Gwen Tracy portions I like less, but it's harmless overall and doesn't hurt the highlights. Over all, the most intense arc I've read in the series so far (which, again, is up to volume 6).

Legacies: A Repairman Jack Novel (Repairman Jack)

Average customer rating:

Super Reader
Jack Rocks!
A Legacy of Great Storytelling
LEGACIES is another great Repairman Jack book
Jack and the Mystery House

Legacies: A Repairman Jack Novel (Repairman Jack)
F. Paul Wilson
Manufacturer: Forge Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0812571991
Release Date: 2005-02-07

Book Description

Repairman Jack isn't your average appliance repairman--he fixes situations for people, often risking his own life. Jack has no last name, no social security number, works only for cash, and has no qualms when it comes to seeing that the job gets done.Dr. Alicia Clayton, a pediatrician who treats children with AIDS, is full of secrets, and she has just inherited a house that holds another. Haunted by painful memories, Alicia wants the house destroyed--but somehow everyone she enlists to help ends up violently killed. The house holds a powerful secret, and Alicia's charmless brother Thomas seems willing to do anything to get his hands on that secret himself.But not if Repairman Jack can find it first!

Customer Reviews:

Super Reader.......2007-09-01

A doctor is very disturbed when her father passes away, and she has to deal with his estate, including real estate. She wants nothing to do with, and gets rid of it. She has a key, but to what? Things seem to be getting weird and supernatural.

She ends up turning for help to a brusque Repairman Jack who gives her no promises, and they delve deeper into something odd, and sinister.

Jack Rocks!.......2007-02-08

I honestly think Repairman Jack is the most clever and unique recurring character I have ever come across. I've only just finished "Legacies" the 2nd in the series and I feel I "know" Jack. The Repairman Jack novels are fast paced, never boring, characters very well developed. I never want to put these books down! This one didn't have a supernatural storyline as did "The Tomb" but it was every bit as good. I can't wait to get to the next one!

A Legacy of Great Storytelling.......2007-02-02

My wife and I just finished F. Paul Wilson's 2nd Repairman Jack novel - Legacies - and were stunned and amazed!

Why you ask?

Because unlike the 1st novel - The Tomb - we were expecting another monster or supernatural type of storyline. But even without those fantastical elements, Legacies managed to still be a fantastic story in many ways.

It was so good in fact, (like the Tomb was), that my wife and I have already purchased the next 6 novels of the Repairman Jack series. And we already have good trust and faith in this awesome author in delivering a rousing yarn - each and every time.

[...]we have no doubt about exploring what new adventures and character growth spurts Jack and Gia will have in future volumes. We can't tell you how well written and fun these first two novels were to read. Whether you are a male or female, young or old, reading these novels is definately for everyone.

Hollywood take heed!

We loved how Legacies built tension with each and every chapter. We loved reading how all the main characters - new and old - grow as the novel goes along. Mixed with tons of action and adventure, love interests and mystery, Legacies is sure to please the mainstream readers.

Heck, it already has...

LEGACIES is another great Repairman Jack book.......2007-01-09

Do not miss any of the Repairman Jack books - every book will keep you turning the page to see how Repairman Jack wins each mission he take on. If you like Jack Bower in "24" you will love Repairman Jack.

Jack and the Mystery House.......2006-09-17

The first Repairman Jack novel by F. Paul Wilson was written in 1984; the character would lie fallow for quite a while till the late 1990s, when Wilson started producing the Repairman Jack books on a more regular basis. That first book was called The Tomb, and while a good book, actually had nothing at all to do with a tomb. In contrast, the second book in the series, Legacies, has a lot to do with legacies.

In particular, the legacy in this story is a house belonging to the late Ronald Clayton - a brilliant scientist but generally unpleasant guy - and has been willed to his daughter Alicia. Alicia, a doctor at a children's AIDS clinic, despised her father and would normally want nothing to do with the house. When her brother Thomas, a loser who can hardly earn a living (and was cut out of the will), offers her a huge sum for the house, she resists, sensing something fishy. Her brother then contests the will, and the people she turns to for help wind up dead.

After Jack does her a favor by retrieving some toys stolen from the clinic, Alicia tries to get his assistance. Initially reluctant, he eventually decides to help. It is apparent that there is something in the house that someone wants, and Jack wants to find it first. He also needs to know who is backing Thomas with a lot of funds.

Unlike many other Wilson books, this is a nonsupernatural story, but there is still some out-of-the-ordinary stuff going on. In addition, we get a good amount of the suspense and action that Wilson does well. On the other hand, there are times in the book that rescues come from out of nowhere which cheapens some of the story. Generally, Wilson is a dependable writer of four star books, and I'll give this one such a rating, but it is a little weaker than his other works.

Average customer rating:

A great beginning to what looks to be a great series
Post-ROTJ haters, read this and buy Legacy
A promising beginning
Great book!!
In the future...Star Wars still rocks!

Broken (Star Wars: Legacy, Vol. 1)
John Ostrander
Manufacturer: Dark Horse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1593077165

Book Description

The Jedi Temple is attacked, an Emperor is betrayed, and the Sith are born anew! A lot can happen in a hundred years, but that's just the beginning of the story! Not since Luke Skywalker first stepped aboard the Millennium Falcon has the galaxy seemed like such a vast, exciting, dangerous place! Readers will meet a host of new characters, see fleets of new spaceships, and visit scores of exotic locations - some new and some familiar. This is a perfect jumping-on point for any reader - an epic beginning to an untold chapter of the greatest adventure in the universe!

Customer Reviews:

A great beginning to what looks to be a great series.......2007-08-09

One of the best Star Wars comics to come along in years. Recaptures the spirit of the original trilogy very successfully without rehashing the plotline and proves that the series doesn't really need the movie characters to tell stories well (hear that, Del Rey?). Some of what makes it so fun is the way it stirs up the combinations of the archetypes the reader is already familiar with such as Imperial, Rebel, smuggler, Jedi, Sith and puts them together in all-new permutations.

Post-ROTJ haters, read this and buy Legacy.......2007-07-12

"After the death of Emperor Palpatine, the defeated Imperial forces pulled back to Bastion, near the Unknown Regions, and called a truce with the New Republic. The Jedi, under Luke Skywalker, again became agents of peace across the galaxy

That peace was shattered by an invasion of fanatical extra-galactic aliens called the Yuuzhan Vong. These "Far Outsiders" killed trillions and devastated entire worlds, taking Coruscant itself and fracturing the New Republic. A Galactic Alliance of remaining systems, Jedi, and the Imperial Remnant finally defeated the invaders, exiling them to the living planet Zonoma Sekot.

Meanwhile, a new breed of Sith, a legion of them led by Darth Krayt, kept patient watch. Emerging from hiding on the planet Korriban, the Sith formed an alliance with the newly reforged Empire. Together they manufactured an incident that sundered the Galactic Alliance and began a brutal war. The Jedi alone remained to defy the Sith and now they are few.

However, the name SKYWALKER still burns among them--a legacy of hope in a galaxy of darkness . . . "

A promising beginning.......2007-07-05

"Star Wars Legacy" is a comic-book series beginning 125 years after the events of Return of the Jedi. Cade Skywalker is a Jedi in training, but the elite order of peacekeepers is once again beset by dark forces -- a resurgence of the Sith on one side, no longer restricted only to two, and a growing new Empire on the other.

After Cade sees his father slain in a Sith attack, he foresakes the Jedi and, as he grows older, becomes an aggressive and highly successful bounty hunter. But it's hard to ignore your destiny, particularly when your most famous ancestor has learned how to return from beyond and dispense advice as a glowing spirit.

"Broken," the first volume in the new series, has plenty of action and has built the framework for an interesting storyline. It hasn't grabbed me yet, but I hope to see it develop into something exciting.

by Tom Knapp, Rambles.(n e t) editor

Great book!!.......2007-06-27

Excellent book, great art. It would be nice if Amazon would care more about the condition of the books, this was a little damaged.

In the future...Star Wars still rocks!.......2007-06-11

This is a great new series that continues the SW story nearly a century after the events to the movies. The new characters find themselves in a very strange hookups and conflicts. I just can't wait for the next book.

Stones of Jerusalem: A Novel of the Struggle for Jerusalem (Thoene, Bodie, Zion Legacy, Bk. 5.)

Average customer rating:

Nicely Woven Tales, Read Luke First
Confused
Five stars again!!!
Stone me, please!
More Stories from the Life of Christ

Stones of Jerusalem: A Novel of the Struggle for Jerusalem (Thoene, Bodie, Zion Legacy, Bk. 5.)
Bodie Thoene , and Brock Thoene
Manufacturer: Penguin (Non-Classics)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0142001880
Release Date: 2003-02-25

Book Description

The latest novel from bestselling authors Bodie and Brock Thoene continues the extraordinary story of faith and love in the first century a.d. that they began in their previous book, The Jerusalem Scrolls. The Old City has fallen and Moshe Sachar, the courageous Israeli leader, remains hidden in an underground tunnel, guarding the ancient sacred scrolls that tell of his people's long, heroic history. Following an elder rabbi's instructions, Moshe opens a scroll and again becomes immersed in the ancient biblical tale of Marcus, the Roman centurion, and Miryam, the troubled young woman he loves. Combining superb storytelling with an enchanting historical setting, this thrilling episode presents the gripping plight of a striking cast of biblical characters amid a rich tapestry of romance and intrigue.

Customer Reviews:

Nicely Woven Tales, Read Luke First.......2007-07-09

Having been broken in by the last book, I was all braced for a first century soap opera...and got it. Yet this time, it was less painful and more fun a transition.
Still not a huge fan of these ancient history books. Avel takes the place of the young Arab boy from the first 3 books, so far as emotional searcher goes. The accounts of Jesus's miracles in the gospels are nicely brought to life and woven into a wonderful story with fictional characters. I highly recommend reading one of the gospels before reading this book, that way you can know which account's they're alluding to.
One cannot accuse Miryam of being a flat character at least in book 4...the changes wrought in book 4 were deep, and she proves it in this book. Now she's slightly skewed as the do-gooder, but the point - that the changes wrought by her encounter with Jesus were radical - is well made.
I'm not sure what certain words Jesus spoke to Marcus ended...the book just sort of ended before they were fulfilled. Odd. Anyway, a nice summer read.

Confused.......2004-04-04

I did like this book, as I liked the others in the series; however, I am a bit confused. The authors seem to join Mary (Miryam)of Magdala with Mary (Miryam), sister of Martha, to make one character. The Bible has quite a bit of info on Mary Magdalene, but less on Mary of Bethany, who was the sister of Martha and Lazarus. I realize that this book is fiction, but I was disappointed that I could never figure out which "Mary" they were referring to.

Five stars again!!!.......2004-04-02

It's amazing how these writers continue to create a piece of work that is so incredible. The story of Marcus and Miryam continues as more of Jesus and his story unfolds. In this edtion more fascinating characters are introduced to help in creating a picture of what life was like for those who witnessed Jesus and his miricales. As I read along, I felt like I wanted to be in their shoes. I wanted to witness these miracles for myself as I never before have. In this way, the Thoene's really outdid themselves in producting a quite memorable book.

Stone me, please!.......2003-09-24

Having been pleasantly surprised by the plot switch to ancient Israel in the previous Zion Legacy novel, I was hoping Stones of Jerusalem would pick up the baton. Not so. Unfortunately, the Thoenes went to the Biblical-plot well one too many times.

Whereas in Jerusalem Scrolls biblical events were feathered seamlessly with the "real" plot of the novel, this current installment tries to bash you over the head with them, as if they're popping off the page to say, "Look, here we are, you can't miss us!" Of course, that's not inherently a bad thing. The book falls flat, though, because these run-ins with Biblical events are awfully contrived, and happen at the expense of the rest of the story's development.

Also, it seemed to me like the Thoenes' writing sort of hit a wall in this novel. The past novels had been closely toeing the line of formulaic (I don't want to use the term 'bad') fiction, but the writing in Stones scoots past that line faster than creamed corn through a baby. Metaphor for the sole sake of metaphor (see previous sentence for an exaggerated example), anachronisms, and some overly ooey-gooey description make you want to stop and pick up a Philip Roth novel just to wash your brain out. I am pretty sure that people in Jesus' time wouldn't be using expressions like "seeing the bigger picture." Also, read the description of the storm while Deborah is sick and try to keep a straight face. C'mon, I dare you.

While not their best effort, I'm still looking forward to reading the final installment of the series, as I really did enjoy the first four. Maybe in the sixth one, Alfie will smack Moshe around a little bit for subjecting him to this lame story.

More Stories from the Life of Christ.......2002-04-11

Picking up where The Jerusalem Scrolls left off, this book starts on the night of Purim. It's been six months since we last saw these first century characters. Marcus has been in the wilderness searching for rebels, but has been called to Jerusalem for the holiday. After the trouble caused by Herod, he's relieved to head back to Galilee to observe Yeshua for Pilate. But he's not the only one. Also searching are Nakdimon of the Sanhedrin, El'azar, notorious rebel bar Abba, and the orphan Avel. When they find Yeshua, things start to heat up even more.

Once again, the Thoenes have written a moving novel that shows God's love and grace at work. They weave Biblical stories so seamlessly into the narrative it's almost a shock when they appear. In doing so, they offer a fresh insight into these familiar tales from the life of Christ. The characters, as always, are well developed and bring the story to life. I especially love their portrayal of Jesus. You can feel his love and compassion flow off the page. While this book has a moving and satisfying conclusion, they have also left things open for another novel in this time period.

While not quite as powerful as the previous book, it's still a compelling story worth reading. I'm enjoying this break in the main story line of Israel's war for independence and am looking forward to seeing what the next book holds.

Average customer rating:

A Hearty Thank You to the Thoenes

Better than expected

A Beautiful, Touching Christian Novel...

History Prettied UP and Slanted TO a Particular Group

Thunder from Jerusalem

Thunder from Jerusalem: A Novel of the Struggle for Jerusalem (Thoene, Bodie, Zion Legacy, Bk. 2.)
Bodie Thoene , and Brock Thoene
Manufacturer: Penguin (Non-Classics)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Jerusalem's Heart: A Novel of the Struggle for Jerusalem (The Zion Legacy, Book 3)

Jerusalem Vigil

The Jerusalem Scrolls: A Novel of the Struggle for Jerusalem (The Zion Legacy, Book 4)

Jerusalem's Hope (The Zion Legacy, Book VI)

Stones of Jerusalem: A Novel of the Struggle for Jerusalem (Thoene, Bodie, Zion Legacy, Bk. 5.)

ASIN: 0141002182
Release Date: 2001-10-02

Amazon.com

May 19, 1948. The state of Israel is five days old. The city of Jerusalem is tenuously poised for a clash that will be critical in the life of the new country. Holding the keys to an Israeli victory is a diverse, rag-tag group: Peter Wallich, once a teacher of agriculture in the kibbutz, now instructing teens in the assembly of Molotov cocktails; the 74-year-old mother superior, who desperately wants to preserve her convent from annihilation; Commander Moshe Sachar and his wife Rachel, who cling together amidst the horrors of war; and an Arab street urchin, Daoud, who repays the kindness of the so-called infidels in the best way he knows how. Interspersed throughout is the appearance of a mysterious old gardener, with wounds on the palms of both hands.

In the Zion Legacy series, the Thoenes return to a cast of characters and themes from their bestselling Zion Chronicles series that earned them a sterling reputation and a faithful readership in the Christian fiction arena. This second installment, Thunder from Jerusalem, starts slowly as the characters are reintroduced, and the stage is set. Then, the pace accelerates. The lives of Muslims, Jews, and Catholics all intersect in a tale of romance and suffering, patriotism and betrayal. Here is solid historical research paired with dramatic storytelling, a combination that has won Bodie and Brock Thoene eight Gold Medallion Awards.

Those who enjoyed the bestselling Jerusalem Vigil, the first book in the Zion Legacy series, won't want to miss this latest offering from the pens of the popular Thoenes. --Cindy Crosby

Book Description

"The Thoenes once again provide suspenseful adventure tinged with the sorrow of reality." (Library Journal)

Early on the morning of May 19, 1948, the long siege of Jerusalem's Old City is lifted as patriot soldiers break through the Zion Gate. But the celebration is short-lived-a long battle ensues. Moshe Sachar, a professor and strategist for the Haganah group, must keep the movement's momentum alive in the face of a dissenting mayor and a disguised SS assassin who has infiltrated the group. Meanwhile, Rachel, his pregnant wife, tends to the growing numbers of wounded at the hospital.

Bodie and Brock Thoene bring to life the stories of a striking cast of characters in an epic story of heroism, tragedy, romance, and faith set against a momentous turning point in the history of the world's most sacred city.

Customer Reviews:

A Hearty Thank You to the Thoenes .......2007-06-26

Mild spoiler alert.
They've done it again: turned out a magnificent book that is all the back toots it to be: fast-paced and really interesting historical fiction. Though bullets and bombs are plentiful, that's not the only battle being waged in this book. Neatly juxtapositioned against the horrors of the pitched battled in Jerusalem's streets is the struggle to survive thirst and despair. The clearest example of this is made through a child...ain't that always the way. Once you read the book, which I hope you do, you'll understand how important hope is to life itself.
Thunder From Jerusalem is just like the last book, yet still interesting...I picture it more as a continuation of the first story, rather than a sequel. Well written - very nicely described scenes, appropriate insertions of humor, etc. Classic Thoene, in short.

Better than expected.......2005-09-11

I received this book quickly and in exccellent condition. I haven't read it yet but it is part of a series and I the previous volume is exceptional.

would reccomend.

A Beautiful, Touching Christian Novel..........2004-09-12

I don't even read novels usually, but this book touched me and opened my eyes to things I had not considered before. The Thoene's write so poignantly and so movingly about things so common and simple, they have a way of reaching right for your heart!

History Prettied UP and Slanted TO a Particular Group.......2004-07-22

Just who in truth helped Israel and how many is an historical fact. This Author and others like him want people to believe that there was a HUGE amount of people in Israel helping those poor Jews over there. This is NOT TRUE. Not true at all.

We cannot let the history of Israel Ancient OR Present be HYJACKED by other people and used for their purposes. That aspect of these "books" has to be delt with first. Second, People picking up these books think they are written by Jewish Authors and will BLAME any negative depiction of Arabs and Islam on Jews.... Our Community must get the word out that we are NOT the Authors of these "Historical Novels". Anything you read in these books come NOT from OUR brains and feelings.

Jews need to get back IN CHARGE of telling our own history. (Other Minority Communities would never allow this situation to develop or contine ie OTHERS telling their stories) Meanwhile these people are making a fortune USING..OUR RELIGION and Israel. I dont like it and others of the Jewish Community who are just finding out about these so called "historical novels" dont like this situation either.

Theres a different ADJENDA about the Land of Israel going on here with these writers.. Their Adjenda is: The End Times. That isnt the way most Jews want their COUNTRY to end up.

Librarians..IF you hand me one of these books as a HISTORICAL NOVEL of ISREAL (not a mish mash of Religious Hopes and Sort of History and possibly a Missionizing Vehicle)..will you inform me that this is NOT written by Jews and DOES have another Adjenda..ie Revelation? And if, by chance, one of these books leads you down the path to to trying to get you to accept another Religion ***(ONE of these books I read actually DID switch into Missionizing Efforts at the End )will you inform me that this book has Missionizing aspects to it? I think Librarians and Book Sellers had better LABEL these books for what they are. If I want to be Missionized to ..I want to know about it BEFOREHAND.

How MUCH money are these people in fact making on the telling of their view of Israel?

Thunder from Jerusalem.......2002-08-20

After a couple of false starts I finished this book, and found the historical perspective, as well as many of the characters enjoyable. Although I do not share the academic pedigrees enjoyed by the Thoenes, I felt there were certain inaccuracies in parts of the story. Although this took away from my own enjoyment of the account, it is quite possible that the fault is mine.

Heart of Empire: Legacy of Luther Arkwright, Ltd. Ed.

Average customer rating:

An interesting, intricate alternate history
Colorful sequel still pales next to BW original
A remarkable admixture of the sacred and profane....

Heart of Empire: Legacy of Luther Arkwright, Ltd. Ed.
Bryan Talbot
Manufacturer: Dark Horse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1569716080

Book Description

Nominated for three Eisner Awards and five Eagle Awards, Bryan Talbot's internationally acclaimed graphic novel, Heart of Empire: The Legacy of Luther Arkwright is now available in a deluxe limited-edition slipcased hardcover, signed by creator Bryan Talbot. Heart of Empire is a truly epic work, both viscerally intense and scathingly funny, transcending genre and shattering the boundaries of graphic narrative. Power, mysticism, history, murder, romance, politics, religion, sex, conspiracy, spectacle, and heroism are the multiverse that makes Heart of Empire one of the most challenging, thought-provoking, and purely entertaining works of graphic fiction, truly deserving of this royal treatment! Collects Heart of Empire: The Legacy of Luther Arkwright #1-9.

Customer Reviews:

An interesting, intricate alternate history.......2002-09-17

A rich tapestry of ideas and half-familiar characters, it's witty, and dark, and complex, and I like it a lot. I haven't read the book this is supposedly a sequel to, yet, but I certainly intend to now! I should note, I do tend to enjoy Victorian-flavored alternate history in general (like Phil Foglio's Girl Genius series, which is admittedly MUCH sillier than this). Papal assassins. A countdown to disaster. Massive neat-looking airships, and city streetcars that look like dragonflies ...

Colorful sequel still pales next to BW original.......2002-05-21

Another Luther Arkwright story? I just got to the point where I was beginning to understand the first one! Graphic author Bryan Talbot has given us another cross-universe tale involving everybody's favorite psionic-messiah. Though conspicuously inferior (even though it's in color) to the original series ý a circa late ý80ýs black and white ýscience-fictationalý story ýin nine partsý, it's still a massive romp.
IF YOU'VE NEVER HEARD OF LUTHER ARKWRIGHT: The continuum in which Arkwright lives encompasses a reality composed of multiple universes called ýparasý ý each one being its own reality both divergent and convergent with others. While the inhabitants of most of these universes are oblivious to the existence of the others, the advanced (and highly secularized society) of ýPara 00.00ý has not only learned how to cross the multi-versal divide, but has taken it upon itself to police the continuum. Using high-technology and ýpsionicsý, they saved the continuum in the first series from a doomsday weapon fielded by a mysterious army called ýdisruptorsý. Luther Arkwright is 00.00ýs greatest weapon against multi-versal disruption, but even he is an alien to 00.00. Arkwright instead is the product of eons of genetic engineering meant to create a human with unmatched psy-powers, capable of crossing the barriers between parallel universes. As in the original AoLA, "Heart" involves some terrifying threat to the existence of the entire continuum, but focuses much of the action on a parallel in which the imperialistic powers of pre-WWI Europe were never wiped out. (In AoLA, the crown heads of Europe conspire to overthrow the fascist British regime descended from the 17th century theocratic protectorate of Oliver Cromwellýs Puritans and install a puppet king in his place; with Cromwellýs help, the weak Prince Charles is killed and his sister, the strong-willed Anne succeeds to the throne on Cromwellýs ouster. When the rest of Europeýs royalty is ýaccidentallyý killed in the climactic battle of AoLA, leaving Anne the sole surviving ruler, her kingdom is poised to become the greatest on Earth.) Got that?
A complex plot linked Lutherýs origins with the fate of the universe and that of the inhabitants of that specific para. Even when its plot wasn't clear AoLA excelled in its narrative, a peerless blend of graphic art and judicious use of prose and dialog in place of traditional comic technique of using thought-baloons. To sweeten things for people who insisted on having everything explained to them, Talbot crafted a wonderfully nuanced alternative earth, inspired by Europe in both its early fascist and terminal imperialist phases (AoLA appeared in the late 1980's when the cold war looked ready to take a dramatic turn).
"Heart " takes place nearly 20 years later and Britannia truly rules. While Princess Victoria, the tempestuous daughter of Anne and Luther, struggles under endless migraines, the empire faces threats from without and within. Anne's closest advisers are actually a cell of hardcore neo-Puritans, with a plan to reclaim power; while in Rome, a dying pope dispatches an assassin with orders to ensure that Anne "render her empire to the Church". Unknown to them all, a horrific psionic force is building strength across the many universes, primed to explode in days, already leaving hints of itself everywhere. Luther, who disappeared shortly after Anne's ascension, a feared victim of underground puritans, is of no help. Only Victoria, who may have inherited Luther's psi-capabilities, has a realization of something horrible and imminent. In frequent black-outs, she dreams of her twin brother Henry, murdered by puritan terrorists.
"Heart" is superb, but still less than AoLA. The colors are splashy, but lack the intricate detail that drove AoLA 's plot robs the sequel of its narrative force. Also missing...is Luther himself for large spans of the story - leaving poor Vicky to shoulder the burdens of heroism, which also deprives the story of as centralized character as Luther. When Luther does show up, he's more aloof than ever, unfortunately. Also missing is a good villain - the neo-puritans of this book are just a bunch of deluded fascists, possessing not a shred of the self-awareness of Cromwell in the first book. Their leader, Kray is too cartoonish (metaphorically and literally ý we first meet him as he poses for a portrait that looks more real than he does). Vain and hinting of racial tendencies that underlined Anglo-identity theory, he's a corseted, spectacled loser with shoulder pads and a bad haircut to go with his big dreams; only Queen Anne's growing dementia allows these guys to get as far as they do. Nothing underlines the futility of the puritans' cause as much as their slogan - "The Future Belongs to Us" (I wonder how long it took to dream that up). The joke of course is that there may not be a future to steal. The horrific force itself, when revealed, is essentially a blob, a force of nature without the character of those who invented the ýfire frostý weapon of the first series. The real menace of the original story was Luther and his untapped abilities, but that's sidelined in the sequel. Even Rosa Wylde, Lutherýs love of the first series is grayed here. With her hair in beads, Rosa looks a shadow of her former self. The end is much too pat and unsatisfying, revealing the disparity between two Arkwright epics. Still, it's an Arkwright story, one that you can get into if you've never read the first, and one that perhaps should be read first.

A remarkable admixture of the sacred and profane...........2001-11-22

This is simply the most intelligent, intricate graphic novel that I have ever read. It contains the most stark mixing of sacred and profane elements- and yet it works. To put it mildly, it works. It is a continuation of the story of the shaman/savior Luthor Arkwright (I fully recommend the original _The Aventures of Luthor Arkwright_). Every time you pick this book up you find something new in the complex story line or intricate artwork. Only a writer/artist could produce a work like this, for only a person who thinks in images could master the symbolist world view that it mirrors. Here you have alternate universe after alternate universe- yet all connected by underlieing currents and patterns. As above, so below.
Oh yes, it also has a healthy amount of English working class bloody mindedness- something that we in America are becoming increasingly familiar with as the corporate "upperclass" tries to turn this society into a rigid caste-based oligarchy....

Spider-Girl Vol. 1: Legacy (Amazing Spider-Man)

Average customer rating:

Everyone, even non-comic readers, will love this book!
It's a Spider-Girl world!
A great book for kids and adults alike!
New collection, better price, same great stories

Spider-Girl Vol. 1: Legacy (Amazing Spider-Man)
Tom DeFalco , and Pat Olliffe
Manufacturer: Marvel Comics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0785114416

Customer Reviews:

Everyone, even non-comic readers, will love this book!.......2004-04-27

I'm not that aquainted with contemporary comics, but this is an outstanding book anybody can get into and enjoy. This is a good collection of the first few issues of the Spider-Girl series, charting the life and adventures of the daughter of Mary Jane and Peter Parker! The storytelling style is reminiscent of the stories that first got me into comics, and there is so much MORE story here than in any other contemporary comic on the market. There is a sensitivity and strength in the main character, May "Mayday" Parker, which I haven't seen in any other female character. She's no "bad girl," but rather a positive role model and not just for women because the values and problems here speak to everyone. (Without exageration, this book has made a major impact on my life.) The personality and look of the main character is based off of the writer's neice, resulting in a highly respectful treatment of the material, and the love and warmth for the character that must be felt by the writer shows! Spider-Girl is a safe book for the young, and the themes and problems and layered subplots can be enjoyed by all. This is unlike any other comic book on the market that I've seen, and I'm grateful for that. This book will do very well with the mainstream audience. :-)

It's a Spider-Girl world!.......2004-04-27

Now available in a digest-sized compilation, these first six issues of SPIDER-GIRL are fantastic! Where most modern day comic books are heavily padded, feature "mature" stories, and have questionable protagonists, SPIDER-GIRL is a throwback to the first hundred issues of Amazing Spider-Man in that each issue is suspensful, fast-paced, and just plain fun.

In these stories, you'll see May "Mayday" Parker, the teenage daughter of Peter Parker and Mary Jane, discover her legacy and take on some of her father's old enemies, and some new ones of her own!

I highly recommend this digest to everyone, and hope that Volume 2 is announced soon!

A great book for kids and adults alike!.......2004-04-27

Spider-Girl is an excellent character with some great stories and good lessons. There is a reason this series has been so well-supported by its fans! Find out yourself by picking this up!

New collection, better price, same great stories.......2004-04-23

While the core Spider-Man comics were stagnating thanks to the ill-advised John Byrne relaunch, Tom DeFalco introduced Spidey's teenage daughter in an "unofficial" future.

Very quickly it became clear that DeFalco's tales of May "Mayday" Parker -- wonderfully illustrated by Pat Olliffe -- captured the qualities of the earliest Lee-Ditko Spidey stories plus DeFalco's own great Spider-Man work during the 1980s. Mayday inherits her father's superpowers even though she never knew her dad was once Spider-Man (now retired).

This digest collects Maday's six earliest tales (Issues 0-5), which previously were published in an earlier trade paperback. But the digest comes with a friendlier price and a cozier format. The pages may be smaller, but the art doesn't suffer.

These stories chart May Parker's uncertain entry into the superhero game as she tries to earn her father's respect, beat the bad guys and keep up her grades. A comic that shouldn't be overlooked, "Spider-Girl" provides a strong female role model and is among the few Marvel comics suitable for young readers.

Even though the Spider-Man books have improved in the last few years, "Spider-Girl" still swings above them in quality. This book will show you why. Bring on Vol. 2!

Average customer rating:

Change in Style, Still a Good Read

A turn off

What an incredible way to introduce Jesus...

A chance to imagine Jesus close-up ...

Get a new perspective of Jesus and Mary Magdalene

The Jerusalem Scrolls: A Novel of the Struggle for Jerusalem (The Zion Legacy, Book 4)
Bodie Thoene , and Brock Thoene
Manufacturer: Penguin (Non-Classics)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

Stones of Jerusalem: A Novel of the Struggle for Jerusalem (Thoene, Bodie, Zion Legacy, Bk. 5.)

Jerusalem's Heart: A Novel of the Struggle for Jerusalem (The Zion Legacy, Book 3)

Jerusalem's Hope (The Zion Legacy, Book VI)

Thunder from Jerusalem: A Novel of the Struggle for Jerusalem (Thoene, Bodie, Zion Legacy, Bk. 2.)

Jerusalem Vigil

ASIN: 0142001511

Amazon.com

Prolific authors Bodie and Brock Thoene have earned a loyal readership for their fictional sagas of Jerusalem's stormy history. In The Jerusalem Scrolls, the fourth book in the Zion Legacy series, the husband-and-wife team surprise readers with a new spin, creating a story within a story and swapping time periods. It's 1948 when the tale opens, and flames are engulfing the Jewish Quarter. The battle for Old City Jerusalem is lost. Moshe Sachar and Alfie Halder escape the chaos through a secret passageway that leads to a cavernous, subterranean library, where the most sacred Jewish texts lie safely hidden. As Moshe prepares for their long confinement, he finds a tightly rolled papyrus scroll inscribed with the names Miryam and Marcus. He reads, and the scene shifts to the first century A.D., where a love story unfolds. Faithful fans of the series may have to stretch a bit to make the transition from following characters they've come appreciate to enjoying this diversion to a biblical epic. But the Thoenes have the skill to pull it off. Their ability to craft a historical novel and their careful attention to detail and description have resulted in sales of 6 million copies of their books in print, and eight Gold Medallion awards. --Cindy Crosby

Book Description

In The Jerusalem Scrolls, bestselling authors Bodie and Brock Thoene take the story back in time from the battle for Jerusalem in 1948 to tell an ancient tale of love, faith, and redemption. After days of brutal fighting against Arab forces, Moshe Sachar, the courageous leader of the Israelis, escapes to a tunnel under the Old City and discovers sacred scrolls that tell the history of his faith and people. Opening a scroll, Moshe becomes immersed in the extraordinary story from the first century A.D. of Miryam, a beautiful yet troubled young widow, and Marcus, her Roman suitor. With stirring accounts of many events and characters from the Bible, The Jerusalem Scrolls combines wonderful storytelling with a captivating historical setting.

Customer Reviews:

Change in Style, Still a Good Read.......2007-07-09

I'll admit I was anxious to see more of the main characters. I mean they left some seriously large loose ends at the finish of the third book. I believe that was purposeful, painful, but deliberate.
The switch to Marcus and Miryam's story was jarring to me. I'm more of a modern historical fiction fan. It was also a switch b/c the first 3 books in this series were very action driven, now all of a sudden we're in first century soap opera territory.
As usual, the Thoenes do an excellent job of the writing and storytelling. I wouldn't call this book my favorite Thoene contribution to society, but it wasn't horrible. It also sets up the next one nicely. Honestly though, this and book 5 of the series could have been a separate duology altogether...I believe they were lumped in with the Zion Legacy as a cheap marketing gimic that worked.

A turn off.......2004-12-19

I generally love the Thone's work, but this book has got me not going back for more. I really didn't appreciate the extreme sensuality that was instilled in Miryam's (Mary of Magdalene)character. It actually left me feeling dirtied. You may think that's extreme, but I just think they pushed the envelope too far. Not in comparison to other writers, but compared to their previous work. It is sad because I considered these authors as "safe", meaning no offensive material. I can't trust them anymore, so I've stopped reading their books. It's truly a shame because they are wonderful writers and I've read about 20 of their books prior to this one.

What an incredible way to introduce Jesus..........2004-04-02

This was my first introduction to the Thoenes - in the middle of a series - but it turned out to be a great place to start! This has been an incredible book!! The Thoene's are magnificent writers who weave a story with many memorable characters that leave you wanting for more. I am amazed at how they were able to include so many characters without my getting confused with all the information they supplied me with. You are first introduced with the situation being Jerusalem in 1948. Then you are taken back in time to the days of Jesus. However, you are not introduced to him in the traditional sense. You are given a behind the scenes look at people who witnessed his acts, a Roman soldier named Marcus and a Jewish woman named Miryam. It is their story that weaves throughout the book along with others. Don't hesistate to buy this book. It is worth the investment!

A chance to imagine Jesus close-up ..........2002-11-05

The Thoenes have put their incredible story-telling ability to work in a whole new way with this novel ... helping us imagine Jesus, the man, when He was on earth. Forget any dry images you've picked up from the King James Bible. This book brings Jesus to vivid, 3-D life and it is a remarkable opportunity to draw closer to the One who died for us. Please don't miss it, whether you're a Christian yet or not!

Get a new perspective of Jesus and Mary Magdalene.......2002-04-12

You really need to read this book to understand what tremendous writers the Thoneses are. They tell the story of Mary Magdalene, her pain and transformation, the way it might have been. It is amazing how many stories and people of the New Testament are
expertly woven into this story which keeps you facinated as you catch onto who you are actually reading about. (The names of people are slightly changed and you catch onto who it is as you go.)It is fun; and when my husband and I (we are reading this together) read about Jesus being interuppted by his mother and brothers, we were so delighted with their take on it and how graciously they portray the Lord. If you know the Bible well, you will get more out of this book.

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