"The Jewels of Aptor" is probably the silliest entry in the post-apocalyptic genre that I've ever read. That's ok, I understand that not every science fiction author strives to create literary masterpieces as well. I can forgive the undeveloped characters and cliched dialogue (sample lines: "Boy am I glad to see you.", "Let's get out of here.") What I can't forgive is the fact that much of the novel doesn't really make sense. Especially at the end, it was hard to keep track of what was going on, and the sudden revelations about who's actually working for the side of good, who's a double-agent, etc..., fail to really explain all of the characters' behavior earlier in the book. Even so, "The Jewels of Aptor" does have enough fast-paced actions scenes to earn a three-star rating.

Rarely does an author's early work match the brilliance of his more mature efforts, and Delany's novel _The Jewels of Aptor_ is no exception. The novel is enjoyable and provocative, but it shows signs of immaturity, signs that are common in science fiction.

As usual, Delany does more than just tell a story. He wants to convey a truth about humanity, and this time it's about the "double impulse" in all of life. It is an interesting theory, and one that deserves consideration. However, he,as narrator, is too "present" in the novel. Some of the characters' interactions are too preachy, too much of an explanation of this theory. The preaching is _almost_ in character, but not quite. Delany matures and presents his theories in the actions and stories of his characters much better (the characters do so in a way that is part of their character) in later novels and anthologies (such as the Neveryon series).

A stronger criticism is one that could be made about too many science fiction authors, and again it is the "presence" of the author in the narration. A few times it seems that Delany wants us to know how much he knows about science, history, or some other field. There's too much of an explanation by a character that just doesn't fit. This is a problem I have _not_ noticed in his later works. The story is a good one, and I recommend the book. However, it is not Delany's finest work. But no one should expect that; it is an early work.

This excellent history of Jean Schlumberger and his amazing jewelry is very fine in every respect save one: there aren't enough pictures! Specifically, there aren't enough color pictures. Never one to stick solely to diamonds, Schlumberger made piquant and imaginative use of a wide array of colored gemstones. It's a disappointment that we get to see so many of these creations herein only in sketch or black-and-white photo form. The pieces which are shown in color are blazingly beautiful and intricately detailed--Schlumberger at his very best. All in all, an unevenly enjoyable book.

A fascinating museum catalog with a hard back cover and with an enchanting dust cover, but very lacking of text about a collection of Jean Schlumberger's extraordinary jewels. Had this catalog included more vignettes or even the provenance's of the jewels portrayed, as it does of Diana Vreeland's brooch, and how she propped it up on her night stand to admire, I would have found this book more enriching. Had I not recognized the drawing of Elizabeth Taylor's 'Night of the Iguana' brooch, I would have not known the famous lady who had been presented this Schlumberger treasure by the late Richard Burton. As a fine jeweler of eighteen years, I am as anxious to know and to pass on to my clients how other people's jewels have added enjoyment and meaning to their lives. Jewels are more than art, they are symbols of love and affection, and often they are the only highly valued heirlooms that are passed on from one generation to another. Hence Jewels also represent our immortality and how sad when the stories of those who wore them are unknown to the heirs. This museum catalog of a 1996 Schlumberger exhibition in Paris doesn't give us any titillating provenance's as does Judy Rudoe's "Cartier 1900-1939" exhibition text nor how this important master's creations enriched the collector lives.

This book is a compilation of photographs of cars and car related materials from junkyards and other locations around the country. Most of the pages are pictures of cars in surreal locations, or specific car parts grouped together. All in all the images are quite interesting, however the book lacks a coherent message. This mix of "junk" was not what I expected; however for those very interested in junk or all things automobile it could prove a worthwhile purchase.

Jewel Dartt's FIRST LOVE, LAST LOVE gets off to a gripping start and holds your attention to the last page.

When Kat Warner is assaulted, her savior is her childhood friend Brendon Morgan, who has just returned home to Missouri after attending medical school back East. Kat can't deny to herself the feelings she has for handsome Brendon. They also both share a love for medicine and healing others. So when he asks her to accompany him to a barn dance, she accepts.

Two years ago, Kat had been a tomboyish girl, but now she is a beautiful young woman. Brendon knows he is attracted to her, and suspects she feels the same way. But could he risk losing her, or their friendship?

Brendon escorts an intoxicated Kat home from the dance. When she goes to sleep that night, she has a nightmare of being trapped in a fire. The next day, her nightmare becomes reality when she is inside a barn and someone sets it ablaze. Brendon saves Kat's life and takes her back to his house to tend to her. He realizes that the fire was no accident, and he could've lost her, forever. Who could want his Kat dead? Could it be the man who had assaulted her? But why?

Some one is out to get revenge on Brendon and make him suffer greatly for what happened in the past.

As suspects are drawn up, and then ruled out, Kat continues to be stalked by a black hooded man. Brendon will stop at nothing to risk losing the woman he loves.

FIRST LOVE, LAST LOVE is a passionate romance that will have readers grinning one minute, and the next on the edge of their seat, holding their breath in anticipation. Just when we think the story is going one way, Ms. Dartt further displays her charming writing style to mix with plot twists and turns. A heartwarming read about unforgettable characters. This book is recommended.

This story is about a young orphan who becomes a apprentice to a apothecary/alchemist. The story is heart warming as both the old man and the boy grow from knowing each other. The story is believable and magical. The author has a good feel about human nature. I do wish there was more magic in it. Overall I think it was a good read.

The book deals nicely with pieces that are mostly Russian enamels, silver, or icons. Very little jewelry is in the Kremlin collection. A couple Faberge imperial eggs that are seldom discussed elsewhere, but, they are not the most superb eggs (in my opinion).

The text of this Jewel Sticker story is the weakest that I have seen in the series. There are several pages without any sticker instructions at all. Other pages direct a child to place, for example, seven stickers at once on a constellation. The illustrations are beautiful, but this story needs rewriting.

Well this book was quite interesting, but in my opinion it could of had more facts about each and every butterfly.

Perhaps I misjudged Ms. Paxon's ability as a novelist. I first came across her works in one of Marion Zimmer Bradley's Sword And Sorceress anthologies. Ms Paxon's short story was incredible! Apon discovering that a friend of mine had the Jewels of Westria, a book by the same author as one of my favorite short stories, I practically STOLE his copy! I started reading enthusiastically, but that passed rather quickly.. The plot is predictable, and not particualrly deep. The characters are generally boring and lacking in depth or personality. Sorry, Ms Paxon. This one is a bomber!

i disagree with the above review. i have never read the short stories, but i loved this book. i found the characters deep and compelling. i loved the premise and the story.

ive been a avid reader for many years.. but this is the worst book i have EVER READ .THIS MAN?? is sick and should be in a mental ward.. Not only does he rape and drug this CHILD. but he kidnaps and physically/mentally abuses her as well .. this BOOK is SICK !
" LOVE'S FIERY JEWEL" THIS IS NOT LOVE!!!!!.

Since childhood, Amethyst Greer's life has consisted of caring for her sickly mother and performing with a theater troupe. But when the troupe leaves America for Jamaica aboard Damien Straith's ship, the Sally, Amethyst's life is forever changed.

As she grows into young womanhood in Jamaica, it falls to Amethyst to provide for her ailing mother. And she finds she must face Damien, whom she has never forgiven for his earlier treatment of her, and ask a favor. One that will prolong her mother's life and leave Amethyst and Damien's lives forever intertwined.

With the loss of her mother, Amethyst is comforted but the wealthy plantation owner's son she intends to marry - until Damien arrives on the island once more and announces that Amethyst will not be marrying William because she belongs to him.

With Amethyst aboard ship as his mistress, Damien sets sail for America and the life waiting for him there. But Amethyst's heart still aches for Jamaica and William. Can Damien and Amethyst put aside pride, anger, and past hurt to forge a harmonious union or will Amethyst, a soiled woman, be cast out penniless from the man who ruined her?

"Love's Fiery Jewel" was a chore rather than a pleasure to read. The characters in this novel are motivated by anger, arrogance, and spite and their relationship falters in this quagmire of negativity. Damien and Amethyst cannot convince one another of their love - and they don't convince the reader, either. Pass on this one!

I have been reading romance books for over 20 years and I have to say that this book is one of the best. Elaine Barbieri has the ability to provide conflict between the two main characters, Amethyst and Damien, resulting in a spellbinding, page turning plot. Damien's character is chauvanistic, but we can forgive him because he is seeping with male vitality. As the characters move from Philidelphia to Jamacia, we experience all the details from climate to clothing and we feel we are there too. If you like historical romance, this book won't disappoint you.