I LOVED this book! I just wish that it didn't end without anything about her little sisters. For me, it ended too abruptly.

this book was fab!! i nearly fell in love w/tim!! he was so awesome...but her dad was a joke...i mean how horrible was he to promise never to drink another drop and go out to Casey's he pisses me off! but then he was sweet in his own way...it was soooo good!! everyone...maybe every girl...should read this book!! i give it a 5* rating

This book was my second favorite out of the series. It's with sadness, adventure, and romance. I recommened this book to anybody who likes historical fiction.

I picked up this book on vacation several years ago because the author's name sounded familiar, and it instantly became one of my favorites! The characters are warm and believable, and the plot is a perfect mixture of surprise and predictability. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mysteries with happy endings. It will make you smile.

I enjoyed this book enormously. The plot is tight and well-crafted, and the characters are engaging, well-drawn, and well-developed. The main character develops (in about 48 hours) from a green, but clever, boy, into a charming, intelligent, young man, with a clear idea of who he is, and what he seeks in life. There's a rather sweet love-story, interesting bad guys, and a suspenseful crime story. A real pleasure--even if it doesn't include any of our old friends, Peters's familiar continuing characters. I got it from the library, and I'm trying to find a copy. I wish someone would re-publish it--I recommend it .

I like all of Ellis Peters books, but this one tends to be better than most. The way she builds her plot and characters makes me surprised to find that nobody else has wanted to write a review about this book. It is very, very, good.

I have anticipated this book for a long time.
It was worth the wait. It absorbed me as I devoured it in under an hour.
If you've ever gazed at the night sky with longing... If you cried when Columbia exploded... If you've ever dreamed of what might be out there, then this book belongs on your shelf.
Colleen Doran's artwork forms a gritty, 'waking up from history' world around Warren Ellis' well-researched, sharp-witted words. If you are a fan of either Doran or Ellis, "Orbiter" will not disappoint you.
I'd say more, but I wouldn't want to spoil this story for anyone. You just have to read it for yourself.

Having read the specialty April 23rd release edition, I can say ORBITER was a joy!

The fluid and informed writing worked hand in hand with the subtle and dramatic art to bring the story to enthralling life, by turns mysterious (where did that shuttle go, and for 10 years?), horrific (what happens when it does return, and the strange bio technology), and awe inspiring (finding out what happened in those 10 years, and oh that ending!).

As the pages turned, it became ever clearer that this is a work of passion for these creators, that they loved the subject matter, and it shone through the interesting ensemble of characters as they peeled away the layers on enigma and faced the big ideas revealed. This is a dream of the future reclaimed. I strongly recommend ORBITER, especially to space enthusiasts and fans of mysteries and sense-of-wonder stories.

My only complaint, like with all good stories, is it leaves you wanting more. I hope to see author Warren Ellis and artist Colleen Doran working together again and exploring even further into a speculative future!

Warren Ellis's story presents the reader with an intriguing mystery, while at the same time showing how the space shuttle Venture's return to Earth literally restores the lives of the three scientists tasked with explaining its decade-long absence. These three, having seen their dreams shattered ten years ago, now stand on the brink of the greatest discovery in history; one which will change their lives - and the world - forever. There are echoes of Ray Bradbury and Arthur C Clarke here, and some will see elements of 50s British sci-fi serial Quatermass, but that is all to the good. This is a multi-layered tale that combines the best elements of its influences, creating a unified whole which is positive and uplifting.

While a few extra pages wouldn't have gone amiss, the three leads are strong characters fully-realised by the narrative. We see something of their past, and we come to know their dreams. We like these people because they are not superhuman. They're normal, down-to-earth types whose heads just happen to be in the stars - just like us. The story is aimed at the dreamers who look up at the night sky in wonder; who shed a tear at the Challenger and Columbia disasters; and those who look at the face of the full moon and see themselves reflected...

A graphic novel does not exist with words alone, and in Colleen Doran's art we find perhaps the book's greatest strength. Colleen uses a style which is largely experimental for her, full of stark contrasts, and while it is not totally successful it does suit the story extremely well. The story-telling is exceptional, and the characters are brought to life with graceful body language that is unique in every case. You can tell who the characters are just by the way they hold themselves within the panels (restless dreamer Terry Marx, introverted loner Anna Bracken), and that is a rarity in comics. We are treated to stunning full-page renditions of some of the wonders the Venture experienced on its travels, and the double-page spread of the shuttle's violent return to Earth is superb.

A word of praise too must go to Dave Stewart's subtle colouring which really brings the world imagined by Warren and Colleen to life - a brighter palette would have destroyed the illusion. It is a perfect compliment to the muted watercolours of Colleen's painted cover: an image which conveys in a single illustration the full sweep of human endeavour in space.

In his introduction Warren expresses his frustrations over the slow progress of mankind in space. ORBITER is his answer to those who would prefer that the exploration stop; who would cut funding; who would give machines tasks that ought to be done by people. We - mankind- have a restless thirst for knowledge, and a need to seek answers from what we see around us. Warren and Colleen believe that we will find the ultimate answers in space, and so that is where we must go.

After reading this book, you'll know they're right.

Once again Virginia Ellis captures the tone of a past era. This time she takes us to the 1940s and WWII. Who would have thought an author with the ability to bring the late 1800s alive could do the same for an era many of our parents lived through? But she does it with grace and style and a compelling characters. This is a story once again about woman who band together in crisis. It's a theme obviously close to Ms. Ellis' heart, one she understands and portrays beautifully.

If you loved The Wedding Dress, than you'll love The Photograph. And if you've read neither, treat yourself. BOth are books you'll read more than once.

I absolutely loved "The Wedding Dress" and was very excited when I learned of Ms. Ellis' new book "The Photograph". Even with it being much lengthier than her first, I had it read in only a few short days! Like her first book, the writing is so captivating that I couldn't stop reading. Every free moment was spent with Maddy, Ruth and their unfolding deception amid their heart-felt dreams. When I was not reading, I was thinking of them, knowing them so well that they seemed good friends of mine. Ms. Ellis is a talented writer who keeps me wanting more. I am anxious for her next book!

The only complaint (if you can call it that) that I have about The Photograph is that the ending seemed too accelerated. After spending so much time with the characters, it seemed as though it got wrapped up too quick in the end... it's really a compliment, I guess, that I would have rather spent another chapter or two with them! A true feel good story that will capture your heart.

The Japanese turned Maddy Marshall's seventeenth birthday into a day that will live in infamy. The boys she has known all her life in Radley, Pennsylvania quickly start volunteering to serve in the military. Her brother Davey joins the marines and her almost engaged to boyfriend Lyle enlists in the navy.

A few weeks later, Davey sends for his wife Ruth recovering from a miscarriage and Maddy to join him in Miami before he ships out. In Miami, Maddy meets injured English pilot turned instructor Lieutenant Stephen Tull-Martin. The first night they meet, a photograph is taken of the extended group. As Stephen and Maddy fall in love, she understands the danger her beloved and her brother face, but it is the photograph that eerily portrays reality.

This is an exciting World War II tale that vividly brings to life the home front especially places like Miami bustling with soldiers and no available abodes for family members to reside. The characters are a deep group, providing much more than a romance as each one opens a window to the past, especially 1942. The mysticism of the photograph seems strange and yet fits the mood of fear for loved ones. Virginia Ellis provides fans of historical tales with a powerfully timely descriptive look at mostly 1942 America.

Harriet Klausner

Ellis Sandoz (one of only a few graduate students philosopher Eric Voegelin took on) provides an excellent discussion and analysis of Dostoevsky's "Legend of the Grand Inquisitor" from The Brothers Karamazov, perhaps one of the world's greatest novels. Sandoz first gives the historical and religious background of Dostoevsky and the Russia he knew, placing Dostoevsky's thought in the particular (and peculiar?) character of Russian Orthodox Christianity, with its roots in old Slavic cults. He then launches into an explication of the Legend, understanding it in distinctly biblical terms. His discussion of the "threeness" of the tale (he finds dozens of triplets throughout) is quite interesting. But more than an analysis of Dostoevsky, it is an insight into the nihilism of modern times. The solution to the crisis lies in returning political science to a search (zetema) for truth. "Political Apocalypse" is a step in that direction.

What a book! Great for any serious fan of Dostoevsky and his philosophy of religion and metaphysics. It puts the context on his thought and his works.

In the fairest and most detailed way, Elis Sandoz fairly and accurately examines Dostoevsky's "Legend of The Grand Inquisitor."

This is one of the best books I've read all year. I'm speechless just buy this book!

What a book! Great for any serious fan of Dostoevsky and his philosophy of religion and metaphysics. It puts the context on his thought and his works.

In the fairest and most detailed way, Elis Sandoz fairly and accurately examines Dostoevsky's "Legend of The Grand Inquisitor."

This is one of the best books I've read all year. I'm speechless just buy this book!

This is a great book written by me, Teddy, and NOT this Celia whats her face. I don't even know who this woman is!!!!! Amazon made a big mistake on the authors.

I found "The Scariest Alphabet Book" to be a fun and educational book. The pictures are amazing, and the fact that two 10 year olds wrote it amazes me even more! As a parent of a five year old son, I know that most alphabet books do not interest children. This one really captivated him! He wants to read it every night! Thank you so much for this book!

This is a highly creative book by two fifth grade friends who used their artistic abilities to make an alphabet book with a Halloween theme (and it really isn't too scary). The profits from the book will benefit America's Fund for Afghan Children. Great for young and old alike. You will be amazed!

I coundn't put the book down after I started reading it. The idea of a hidden colt in a privite school is such a cool idea for a storie. Carol Ellis did a great job writing this. It was so good I finshed it in one day. I think everyone should read this book even if they don't like reading.

This book was very interesting from the start. It captured my attention, and I couldn't put it down. Very surprising ending!

I love the way this book shows cults in school. It is a great example of how one feels the need to fit in and , at times, will go to any length to fit in. Carol Ellis did a fine job with this book. ROCK ON!!!!

Livvie has a new stepfather. Ever since the day she met him, she was uneasy about him. She felt that he was fake, and acted overly-nice. Still, nothing prepared her for what she saw on TV one night while everyone was gone. She never expected to see the face of her stepfather on the "Fugitives from Justice" show, wanted for the murder of his wife and stepdaughter fifteen years ago! How can she prove to herself that he did -- or didn't -- do it? Everyone thinks that he's the nicest man to ever walk the face of the earth! Most of all, what happens if -- or when -- he suspects her of snooping around his past? He would have to be crazy to try to come after her, right? Then again, has he been all along?

I thought that "The Stepdaughter" by Carol Ellis was one of the best books I've ever read! Every chapter kept you on the edge of your seat! Is there a reasonable explanation, or is Livvie's stepfather a murderer? Find out in "The Stepdaughter."

Also recommended:
a.) "Someone at the Door" by Richie Tankersley Cusick
b.) "Starstruck" by Richie Tankersley Cusick
c.) "The Train" by Diane Hoh
d.) "The Invitation" by Diane Hoh
e.) "Slay Bells" by Jo Gibson
f.) "My Bloody Valentine" by Jo Gibson
g.) "Double Date" by Sinclair Smith
h.) All R. L. Stine young-adult thrillers
i.) All books by Joan Lowery Nixon

Livvie has a new stepfather. Since the day she met him, she thinks that he's overly-nice and fake. In addition, everyone else thinks that he's the best man to ever walk the face of the earth! One night, while her mother and stepfather are out, Livvie stumbles across the "Fugitives from Justice" TV show. She thinks nothing of it until she sees a very familiar face across the screen -- her stepfather's! He's wanted, under a different name for the murder of his wife and stepdaughter! How can Livvie prove that her stepfather is a madman? No one will believe her; they'll think she's going over the edge! Still, somehow, someway, Livvie must do it. Of course, there is the minor detail of her stepfather coming after her, stopping her from exposing him. He'd have to be crazy to try to get rid of her, too! Right? Then again, he'd have to be all along!......

I thought that "The Stepdaughter" was very nice. It wasn't your average stalker-type thriller -- it was unique. The only downfall would have to be the first half of the book. It takes time to get into, and the author crams the events into the last 20 pages or so. Other than that, it is a wonderful story that will prove the phrase "looks can be deceiving!"

Also recommended:
a.) "Someone at the Door" by Richie Tankersley Cusick
b.) "Vampire" by Richie Tankersley Cusick
c.) "The Stalker" by Carol Ellis
d.) "The Train" by Diane Hoh
e.) "The Invitation" by Diane Hoh
f.) "Double Date" by Sinclair Smith
g.) "Slay Bells" by Jo Gibson
h.) "My Bloody Valentine" by Jo Gibson
i.) All R. L. Stine young-adult thrillers
j.) All books by Joan Lowery Nixon

It is so well written, and everyone else thinks these tiny little accidents are all prevented by the "spotlight" stepfather. Livvie doubts that especially when she is absolutely positive her stepfather is a murderer, but how can she prove it? Everyone thinks she's crazy, but she won't give up, and the more information she finds the more "accidents" happen to her. Is she really going out of her mind, and these accidents are all a coinsidence or does someone want to stop her from finding out any more? Her stepfather perhaps? Now that no one believes her and her life is in possibly jeopardy. What is she going to do. Its a matter of life and death. Livvie's life and death!

The Taylor's Guides are known for their great pictures and good cultural information. This book lists annuals as "cool weather, "warm weather" and "tender perennial."

I have often told customers that tender perennial means it is perennial somewhere, but certainly not here. That may not be the case for everyone reading this book. You have to look in the encyclopedia area to see what zone the plant is hardy in. Some tender perennials may be perennial in your climate or only some winters in your climate.

The problem with any book on annuals that includes tender perennials and tropicals is availability. For other categories in the Taylor's Guide, like perennials, shrubs, etc. most of the plants are available from good nurseries.

Annuals is a different story. The best sellers are available. Some of the tropicals are available depending on where you go. The rare or unpopular annuals to only be grown from seed are available from seed vendors and garden centers who sell a variety of seeds. For the tropical combination plants, which are the most interesting listed, you have to go to the better nurseries or mail order sources.

What I am getting at here is how to use this book. Don't have your heart set on a picture in this book. The plant may be only available by seed, and perhaps that does not suit your lifestyle. Regarding the ideas decide if you want to grow from seed or not. With the tender perennials, after you have read about them, decide what you want to try.

This is a great book on annuals. Anyone interested in plnats should buy it. When combining with tropicals and plants from seed, use your common sense.

The Taylor's series of gardening books have a admirable reputation and it is easy to see why. This update of "Annuals" is in a slightly larger format but still contains the excellent information as the previous edition. A 30 page introduction discusses growing techniques and care throughout the season as well as an insect identification guide. This is followed by the "Gallery of Plants", a 200 glossy section of beautiful photographs of annuals arranged by their Latin name (an index of common names is provided in the back). Each photo is accompanied by a brief description statement and a page number reference to the plant's entry in the "Plant Encyclopedia" section in the last part of the book. Here you will find a detailed description and cultural instructions on how to grow the plant. The book is also an excellent tool for helping you identify unknown plants.

The colored pictures in order are extremely helpful in identifying plants. There are sun/shade and water information for each plant. Sometimes the common names aren't given and I don't know all of the Latin names for plants.

Every Tarheel, or any non-Tarheel who has an interest in one of the most important political figures in the South, Terry Sanford, should read this book. Senator in the NC General Assembly, Governor, President of Duke University, and US Senator, this book covers it all. It provides an interesting look at Southern politics, and how our past still effects us to this day. There should be a "Six Degrees of Terry Sanford" game, as he can be linked to practically anybody in the field of NC or National politics. Kerr Scott, Lauch Faircloth, Bill Clinton, John Edwards, The George Bushes, Al Gore, Jesse Helms, Jesse Jackson, Richard Nixon, Elizabeth Dole & Erskine Bowles (both front runners from their respective parties in the 2002 Senate race) and the list goes on. Terry Sanford witnessed great movements in history. The race issue in the South, a political atmospheric change, the wheeling and dealing of politicians. Throughout he kept his values and goals, which helped him become a symbol of Progressive policies, and helped place Duke University into national prominence. This should be required reading!

Anyone who lives in North Carolina will learn much about the state's recent political history in this book. And anyone who is interested in progressive politics should read it too. Terry Sanford's forward-thinking approach to government is an inspiration, particularly in the areas of race and education.

Former North Carolina Governor and United States Senator Terry Sanford is one of this century's outstanding political leaders. While serving as Governor in the early sixties, Sanford became known nationwide for his commitment to improving education in North Carolina.

Covington and Ellis' biography of Sanford offers a great deal of insight into Sanford's formative years and his political career. The authors researched their subject thoroughly, and the reader gains a great deal of insight into North Carolina politics and into the historical forces shaping the country.

Many of Sanford's colleagues, family, and friends were interviewed for this book, and their stories and perspectives add depth to this book. Many of the characters in the book are still active in North Carolina politics, including "Jimmy Hunt" (as he is referred to in the book) who now serves as Governor of North Carolina.

People who still believe that our government can be a force for good, and that a political life can be synonomous with a life of public service, will be inspired by this book and by the life of this outstanding public servant.