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Book reviews for "Ishwaran,_Karigoudar" sorted by average review score:

Marketing Strategy and Uncertainty
Published in Hardcover by Oxford University Press (1999)
Author: Sharan Jagpal
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Marketing Strategy & Uncertainty
This book is very insightful and provides great examples and formulas to prove each theory. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in pricing of products; however, you must be familiar with calculus in order to make use of the formulas in this book.

Marketing Strategy and Uncertainty
This is a very nice collection of highly useful (in my Market Analysis profession) thoughts. Unlike other non-theoretical marketing text books, it helps me develop useful thinking. I had difficulty analysing the real world marketing data, such as reactions of retailers to actions by manufacturers in selling prices. All those actions - reactions can be, as the author suggests, described in beautiful mathematical equations, and , then, I would be able to marerialize something like Computorised Simulation model. I wanted say a big Thanks to the author.


Philosophical Foundations of Adult Education
Published in Hardcover by Krieger Publishing Company (1995)
Authors: John L. Elias, Sharan B. Merriam, and Sharon B. Merriam
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Classic
This book provides an excellent overview of the classic education philosphies in the context of adult education. It is very useful as a text book in graduate level courses, but would need to be supplimented with other resources providing information on emerging theories.

A comprehensive overview
"This book brings to life issues concerned with the philosophy of adult educators and relationships betweeen education and society. Due to it primary North American focus, the book will find its major audience there, but will appeal also to readers everywhere with an interest in the historical development of adult education. The strength of the work lies in the way it casts U.S. adult education in new roles: the facts come together in new ways to create new gestalts.... It is difficult to be objective about a book that reflects so accurately and faithfully the wide range of options that educational thought presents to us. Therefore, we confess to an overriding desire to induce as many readers as possible to beg, buy or borrow PHILOSOPHICAL FOUNDATIONS OF ADULT EDUCATION--not just to add to your personal library so much as to enjoy a reactivated search for your personal truth under the capable ministrations of Elias and Merriam." Dr. June Barth-Dow-Sheats and Dr. Paul H. Sheats, CONVERGENCE


Crime Through Time
Published in Mass Market Paperback by Berkley Pub Group (1997)
Authors: Miriam Grace Monfredo and Sharan Newman
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Great anthology, although not the strongest of the three...
I picked this book up at a library sale, and have been browsing through the stories one at a time. The origins of the historical mystery in Ellis Peters' Brother Cadfael series is explained, and Cadfael is what turned me onto this genre in the first place. Some of the stronger stories are the story by Steven Saylor(featuring Cicero and an elegant explanation of the Archimedes Principle) and a story featuring Sir Francis Drake and several sailors on the High Seas. A story about a Regency dandy turned detective reminded me of other Regency-based mysteries authored by Rosemary Stevens and Alice Chetwynd Ley (however, I found the "fancy" names given to servants slightly unconvincing); the motive was compelling and the plot well-researched. "Death of a Place-Seeker" which I read three times, seeking to spot all the clues I had missed the first time. [That, in my view, is the true test of a strong story]. I made a mental note of certain authors I intend to try later, having already discovered Steven Saylor and Peter Tremayne from other anthologies.

While this anthology has been interesting and entertaining, there were some weaker stories, notably the contribution by Anne Perry, where the story seemed oddly incomplete (what happened to the villain? What did the hint about the villain profiting from the letters mean exactly?). On the other hand, the story about Mrs Hudson as a sleuth-cum-social worker was delightful - and it was rather fun to see Sherlock Holmes get his comeuppance. The story about the Salem witchcraft trials was interesting to me, given my study of the patterns of accusation at some point in my college career.

The reason I assign this collection only four stars (about 4.4) is because some of the stories seem incomplete or hastily written. Some of the historical settings seemed unconvincing, while others were simply brilliant. Compared to the second volume CRIME THROUGH TIME II (which I read first), this collection comes off badly. If possible, I would recommend reading the volumes in order. On the whole, this is a good introduction to many interesting authors.

An excellent anthology by well-known/not well-known writers
Luckily, you don't have to have a history degree to enjoy this book. The joy of an anthology is finding new authors. In this book, there is a broad span of well-known writers, and some that are not so well-known. It will be fun to find other works by some of these writers. It's worth the money

Should have bought it sooner !
Worth it for the Steven Saylor Roma Sub Rosa story alone..


Crime Through Time II
Published in Paperback by Prime Crime (1998)
Authors: Miriam Grace Monfredo and Sharan Newman
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Timelines of Crime
I really enjoyed this book. I had read the first Crime Through Time book and I think this one is better because the settings and situations were more intriguing. One of my favorites is the delightful "Murder One" about the worlds first caveman murder. I also liked how there were segments of history not always focused on; such as the contribution of the chinese to the advancement of the railroad and the feelings of an Irish frontier woman. There is also a nice mix of main characters who are doing sleuthing for the first time. There was only one story that was obviously part of a series and not able to stand alone. I found it to be the exception however and not the rule.

Another great blast from the past!
I really enjoyed this sequel to "Crime through Time" more than the original. I thought the stories were much more insightful and interesting. My favorites were the first two stories;( especially "Murder One") for their wit and pacing. The collection of writers and story locations were mostly far removed from the first book as well. A delightful read!

The best of the three volumes so far.
If you want to pick up one anthology to represent some of the best writing in the historical mysteries genre, this is it. Better by far than the Mammoth books (although they are good bargains), and better than the first and third CRIME THROUGH TIME. Some of the stories that stuck in my mind were the first murder (in the Stone Age), and the chilling story of a young Venetian woman. Most of the stories stand very well on their own, and some might tempt you to read further works by their authors. Some of the authors I was already acquainted with, while others were completely new (and delightful surprises) to me.


Death Comes As Epiphany
Published in Audio Cassette by Books on Tape, Inc. (21 December, 1998)
Author: Sharan Newman
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Charming and Original
I happened on the unabridged audio book and was hooked immediately. The medieval French setting of the book, the historical characters of Abelard and Heloise, the delightful Catherine and Edgar, and a well-crafted mystery combine to make this a very satisfying read. The historical and cultural detail of daily life in Paris in that time was especially fasinating. That Ms. Newman is first a historian and second a mystery writer sets this series above the bulk of the genre and has made me a devoted follower. In fact, on our last trip to France I persuaded my husband to detour off our route to visit the Paraclete!

Catherine Le Vendeur
With 'Death comes as Epiphany'' author Sharan Newman launched the medieval Catherine Le Vendeur mystery series. Set in twelfth century France, the reader is introduced to its fictional,strong and engaging heroine Catherine, daughter of merchant Hubert Le Vendeur, she's a novice in the convent of Le Paraclete (and about to take her vows and renounce the world).

When on an assignment for Abbess Heloise, Catherine faces many dark and confusing secrets. Such as for instance: Hubert's Jewish ancestry or the intense feelings of maternal uncle Roger for her own person.

A thoroughly researched, three-dimensional novel, which doesn't shun the grittier and nastier aspects of medieval life. Catherine and her family intermingle effortlessly with historical characters like: Heloise, Abelard or the Abbot Suger. Further the author introduces us to the series other regulars: first of all Edgar, Catherine's future husband (a laird's son hailing from Scotland), with whom Catherine will form a sleuthing partnership, her father Hubert (a converted Jew), her younger sister Agnes, her Jewish aunt, uncle and cousin: Johannah, Eliazar and Solomon.

With Catherine Ms. Newman portrays a strong and highly educated heroine who is nevertheless firmly rooted in her own time. The courtship and eventual marrriage of Catherine and Edgar is realistically and playfully developed. They certainly enjoy a true and wonderful chemistry.

For me Catherine is a truly memorable heroine and everytime I read her adventures with pleasure. Sleuthing with Catherine and Edgar simply never bores.

History
As the first volume in the adventures of Catherine LeVendeur, this book is an exceptional escape into medieval France. As a mystery, the plot is very good but not exceptionally sophisticated. The best service is rendered as an introduction to the further mysteries in this series, which gain in sophistication and quality with each new book. The author's later books (The Devil's Door, The Wandering Arm, and Strong As Death) are much enjoyable for having read this volume first. A truly enjoyable series that educates as well as entertains.


In My Own Name: An Autobiography
Published in Paperback by Womens Pr Ltd (1987)
Authors: Sharan-Jeet Shan and Sharan-Jeet Shan
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Love conquers all barriers...
This story is a moving account of a woman's 'forbidden' love affair with a contemporary student which survives their subsequent marriages and international relocation. The author describes the pressures placed upon her by her family to forego both career and partner for the sake of keeping 'family honour'. She is 'persuaded' to marry into a traditional Indian arranged marriage and eventually emigrates to Britain. Despite the incompatibility of this relationship, Shan establishes herself as a mother and teacher. But her loss remains and she continues to search for her former lover. There is a moving account of her re-acquaintance with the former lover (by now an established doctor) and the realisation that life moves on.

This is a sincere and touching story which must have been difficult for the author to write. The description of life in India and Britain is vivid and adds both interest and contrast for the reader. In particular, the difference in cultures and personal values is highlighted and leaves the reader with much to ponder upon well after finishing the book.


The Profession and Practice of Adult Education : An Introduction
Published in Hardcover by Jossey-Bass (1996)
Authors: Sharan B. Merriam and Ralph G. Brockett
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Good for studying
I needed this book for an online course. It was interesting that this book could spur so many new ideas that I have now. I learned that many historical figures that I have admired as authors, performers, and scientists, could be adult educators because of the stances to think, to change, and to influence others in society.


Cursed in the Blood
Published in Hardcover by Forge (1998)
Author: Sharan Newman
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Newman's books are wonderfully vivid historical novels, but
I have very mixed feelings towards this entire series. On the one hand, the atmosphere is incredibly vivid. I can't really judge if it's accurate, but I certain feel transported to another time and place that I can experience with all my senses.

However, plotting and characterization sometimes leave a lot to be desired. The male members of Edgar's family were so one-dimensional and melodramatic that I lost interest in what would probably have been a pretty good story. There were two exceptions: one is a brother who is gay, which at least is one of the nicer stereotypes about homosexuals; and his uncle who belongs in a sword and sorcery novel. I didn't much care for the ending. I think Newman may be getting herself into a corner, but I don't imagine that I'll read any more of the series, so I'll never know.

Strong to plain still holds this book strong!
When I first picked up this series, it was after I had read the Guinevere Trilogy, by the same author, Sharan Newman. My mom had gone to a conference for Mystery Writers and picked up a bunch of her books, including the first installment of her Catherine Levendeur Series. I fell in love with it, and each year my mom returns to the conference she gets me a signed copy of her latest adventure. The character was very headstrong then, but now, in this sixth part of the continuing series, Catherine has taken motherhood, and life in mideval France to a more mature level. It's very enjoyable to see how the characters of Edgar, Catherine, and their children have changed over the years in the stories, but it may not be as strong as in the first few.

In this novel, Catherine, her husband Edgar, and the rest of her family trek the miles to distant Germany to save her sister, Agnes, from an undetermined fate, as she was accused of the murder of her new husband. The conflicts are understandable and believable as we see her struggles to hold a family together in a time and place of racial anger and missunderstanding with the various culture clashes.

Sharan Newman's views and enterpretation of the time peroid are amazing and fantastic to see, but some of the plot becomes rediculous and confusing, as well as Catherine's strange newly-found, docile sense of motherhood. It seems that she is no longer taking on the mysteries of this novel, but leaving it to her husband. I enjoy this series very much. It is a must read! Take it from me, you should pick up this series, but don't be dissapointed if the attitude changes from book to book. The years do go by swiftly, and Catherine is, and always will be a little too headstrong for her family, no matter how any children she has! Try it out for yourself!

Keeps getting better
In this 5th of series, we learn why Edgar was able to leave his home and family for Catherine - and why he could love and respect her even though she is but a woman. I love this historical period, and enjoy glimpses of Abelard and Heloise in the earlier novel and, in this one, seeing more of E. Peters' Brother Cadfael's world. Edgar is so much more than a beautiful face. I want to know him and Catherine even better. I hope there will be more. I want Solomon to find a kosher wife and I want Catherine's son to grow up. I want to hear more talks with their Parisian friends. I am deeply satisfied with the characters in these five books - and I hope to meet the again.


Guinevere
Published in Paperback by Tor Books (1996)
Author: Sharan Newman
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Interesting, but I Hated Guinivere Herself
It's interesting, I actually liked the book, although I couldn't stand Guinevere herself. She was kind of wimpy, with no real clue about the real world, and incredibly selfish. However, I actually enjoyed the book quite a bit, because of the characters surrounding Guinevere. I really liked Arthur, Mark and Guinevere's mother, among others. These people actually made it worth the read. Guinevere's obsession with herself and her unicorn became extremely obnoxious after a while, however. All the unicorn did, as far and I could tell, was put his head in Guin's lap and let her pet him. Oh, and complain a whole lot about not knowing other unicorns. Read this book for it's supporting characters, if you're willing to ignore an obnoxious heroine.

delicate beauty and historical charm
I have read over 100 Arthurian novels, and Sharan Newman's "Guinevere" trilogy is in my top 10 list. This book presents a detailed view of Romano-Celtic Britain, yet manages to keep the magical aspects of the cycle. Cynics will not enjoy it, as the first volume details Guinevere's childhood and friendship with a unicorn sent to watch her by the Horse Goddess, Epona. Many of the secondary characters are lovingly detailed (particularly Gawain, Risa, and Guenlian), and Newman's Arthur is charmingly uncertain of himself and his role. Several readers I know have been put off by the "precious" element of the unicorn: don't be. It isn't all hearts and flowers in this book, and Newman manages a story that is sweet without being too cloying. I also recommend the other two volumes: "The Chessboard Queen" and "Guinevere Evermore".

A Mix of the Romantic and the Mythical
This is a great read for anyone who's into mythical legends. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! Newman knows how to weave the Celtic myths together very well - the characters stayed with me after I finished reading this book. What is interesting is her exploration of the intimate relationship Guinevere has with her unicorn. This book is for all the romantics who enjoy the Arthurian legends.


Heresy : A Catherine LeVendeur Mystery
Published in Hardcover by Forge (01 December, 2002)
Author: Sharan Newman
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A tiresome soap opera plot set in the Dark Ages
A confused and confusing tale involving many characters behaving oddly. The author does an adequate job of presenting the time period, even if there are some glaring errors (ie. a passing reference to the plaque two centuries before it hit Europe).

I will not rehash the plot as several reviewers have already done that in detail. I found the story, and the ending in particular, worthy of a daytime soap opera. All that was lacking was an amnesiac.

Try any one of these alternatives:
PC Doherty (Hugh Corbett; 14th century England)
Peter Tremayne (Sister Fidelma; 7th Century Ireland)
Ellis Peters

Good strong mystery but not Newman's best
Sharan Newman is a rarity'a writer of historical fiction who really knows her history. While Newman does an amazing job at recreating twelfth-century France, the best part of her books is that she never cheats'her characters are very much products of medieval society. Newman never has them endorse modern views just so that the reader will be able to relate to the character.

That said, Heresy is not Newman's best book (but the level she sets is really high so a weak book by Sharan Newman is the equivalent of a great book by other historical murder mystery writers). I love the characters Newman has created. Catherine, her heroine, is the daughter of a devout Catholic woman and a Jewish convert. Rampant anti-Semitism means that Catherine keeps her Jewish roots hidden'but she has close ties to her Jewish relatives. For me, this is one of the most fascinating parts of Newman's works'the inter-play between the Christian and Jewish worlds of medieval France.

Newman's primary interests tho' are with the range of Christian belief in medieval France and her murder mysteries often deal with heresy, the threat of heresy or heretical groups. This book is no exception'the lead character is the son of Heloise and Abelard. Suspected of murder after consorting with a group of heretics, Astrolabe is on the run and he turns to Catherine and her family for help.

The tensions in this mystery were not as strong as they could have been (I was less interested in Astrolabe than I was in the other characters). If you've read Newman's other books, you'll probably enjoy this one but if you are new to her work, try reading A Difficult Saint or any of her earlier works first.

Excellent Historical Mystery
A fascinating historical mystery set in twelfth-century France, this book was an excellent view into the backstage maneuverings of the Council of Reims, which took place during the second crusade.
This was the crusade that the fascinating Eleanor of Aquitaine went on with her first husband, before her divorce and marriage to Henry ( the one who had Thomas Beckett disposed of).

The mystery revolves around Astrolabe, the son of Heloise and Abelard, and whether or not he will be accused of Heresy, as was his famous father. Abelard, Astrolabe's father, was the influential and charismatic leader of a particular approach to theocracy that was challenged through the Heresy trial of the Bishop of Poitiers during the council of Reims.

This book is part of a series of novels about Catherine LeVendeur, a devout Catholic, whose family's Jewish roots, put her in peril. Catherine is a well-educated middle-class wife, whose family is dependent upon their hidden Jewish connections in order to conduct business in silks and spices. Catherine at one time, was attracted to convent life, and was well educated (for her time, and for a woman) in Latin and Church doctrine. She is instrumental in resolving the mystery due to her background and her ability to be overlooked by clerics who feel that discussing things in Latin protects them from eavesdroppers.

I liked this book because the heroine was effective without violating the standards of female conduct for the time and place of the setting. Sharan Newman is a consummate author and historian who makes history go down smoothly and as a pleasurable read.


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