This tightly written story is a keeper. Catherine Spencer's talent for weaving heart-rending suspense with sizzling passion had me wishing the book would never end. The plot twists are excellent, the characters well-defined and far more skillfully drawn than those found in most other Presents. No snarling hero or silly heroine here, but two sympathetic people caught in an impossible predicament, with no easy way out. An emotionally satisfying read and Five Stars all the way.

D'Alessandro's Child is one of Catherine Spencer's best books. The characters are much more complex than those in many category romances. The heroine is immature in some ways but when push comes to shove, she certainly stands up for herself, both with her odious parents and with Michael. She shows much growth in maturity during the story. From the beginning, her love for her child shows that she is not a woman anyone can walk over, no matter how it seems at first. Later, she takes the initiative in many situations. She comes across as a real person, not a cardboard, generic heroine. Michael also is very human and real, emotionally torn by the dilemma in which he finds himself. He shows great kindness in his treatment of his ex-wife to whom he owes nothing. The reader can feel the conflicting emotions within him as he tries to do the right thing. Altogether, an emotional and uplifting story.

Catherine Spencer's story of two so unlike people, Mike D'Alessandro and Camille Whitfield, drawn together is a super tale. Her plot is so evocative of the complex world we share. Mike and Camille are irresistibly drawn together by an intense passion they cannot deny. But Mike cannot tell Camille of the real bond they share. How Mike finally reaches out and claims Camille's heart is a stirring sstory of romance and adventure.

Catherine Spencer describes in exciting detail the joys these two lovers share. Try as they may, they cannot still their passion for each other. Yet only slowly do they come to understand how much more they share. The wide embrace of their love includes compassion for the less fortunate and caring understanding for the persons who have failed them.

This is a story that satisfies our longing for the warmth of caring people and the delights of passionate love. I savored the strength of Mike, a man willing to pursue the woman he desires and to go after the son he was denied. The awakening of Camille as she learns to follow her heart is so exciting as Catherine Spencer describes the intense pleasure Camille finally experiences as a full woman.

The final chapter shows us Camille as a strong, mature woman aware of the romance life holds and ready to choose her future.

Catherine Spencer again has given of her superb imagination and sensitive understanding of human nature. D'Alessandro's Child is a romance to read and to treasure.

Cookson has been writing historical fiction for over forty years and I have been reading it for close to thirty. After her death in 1998 her estate released this last book. As always she gives us strong characters with loving ways, drama, death, murder, class struggles, and even a bit of lust and loving along the way.

Set in Northeast England we are entertained by the comings and goings of the Stewart family. Patti the rebellious daughter, and Daniel the subservient son, manipulated by a father Hector Stewart who is evil and pathetic. After their mother's death, Hector finds he hasn't the money to run the farm, so is forced to marry an Irish woman with the promise of an inheritance.

I love how Cookson is able to take the reader into her world and make you want to return to it. Even after years without one of her books, I find myself drawn to them, like a renewal of something wonderful never to be forgotten. She will be sorely missed. Kelsana 9/24/01

God bless her. She will be missed. I have loved her works for over 20 years and this one is as good as it gets.

Late in the nineteenth century northern England, Hector Stewart decides that two years as a widower is enough. He announces to his children, Pattie and Daniel, that he plans to remarry. His bride to be is a wealthy Irish relative, Moira Conelly, whose father happen to be his father's half-cousin. Hector expects Moira to bring money as a dowry that he can use on their failing farm.

Moira wed Hector to escape her home, but she honestly thought she married a wealthy landowner. In spite of the lack of new capital, at first everyone is happy with the marriage as Moira adds a dimension of happiness into their lives. However, over the years as the family fiscal crisis worsens and Moira seems to be in a constant state of pregnancy, Hector blames everyone, including the "deceitful" Moira, for his troubles. How will the lack of nurturing from the angry, cold Hector impact everyone else in the family, especially as they reach out for love?

THE DESERT CROP is the last novel from the great Catherine Cookson, who passed away last year. However, the story is a tribute to the talent of one of the hall of famers of romance writing. The story line is vintage Cookson, taking place in her usual time and universe, and involving individuals and a family struggling to cope with pending disaster. The characters are somewhat simplistic, but perhaps that is where the charm of Ms. Cookson lies as their motives are easy to understand. Fans of the deceased superstar have a gold medal final novel of love redeemed.

Harriet Klausner

The first two sections of St. Catherine's "Dialogue", the Prologue and the Way of Perfection, are very powerful statements about our relationship to God. In the Prologue we, through Catherine, are speaking to God by expressing our hopes and fears. But in the Way of Perfection it is God who is speaking about His hopes and fears for us and for our society. Thus, the work of Catherine truly represents a dialogue between two parties - us and God.

The remarkable characteristic about this dialogue is that it is similar to the model for dialogue promoted by today's counsellors and psychologists: the model where a staff member first listens to the client before responding with professional expertise in order to respect the freedom of the client. Since her model for dialogue is similar to that of contemporary counsellors, Catherine can be said to be very relevant today.

In the Prologue Catherine opens the discussion by expressing some very human and normal desires. She hopes for the good of herself, of the Church, and of the world. Catherine even manages to present to God a special intention which affirms the Catholic teaching that God knows not only universal, cosmic events, but also ordinary, everyday particular circumstances.

The petitions of Catherine reveal two characteristics of her relationship with God. First, by her example Catherine teaches that God is able to relate to us humans on our level. She was able to tell God about human events and affairs. Secondly, her action of asking God for things is a sign that Catherine had a great trust in God and in His love. She would not have made those prayers in the Prologue if she thought God was unconcerned and indifferent to our well-being. Consequently, Catherine shows not only her fragile, human side, but also her trust and hope.

The Way of Perfection is the section where God speaks to His dialogical partner in reply. This section is longer than the Prologue, yet this should be of no surprise since God obviously has more to say than Catherine. In this section the distinction between virtuous and non-virtuous people is made. The difference is that, unlike those who live in vice, virtuous people have an awakened conscience, appreciate the fragrant smell of virtue, and take joy in the company of other believers (p.30). And because the life of virtue is superior to its opposite, the life of vice, just as love is superior to hatred (p.34), God desires virtue for all people. "... I look on them and give them light (p.30)."

A finer distinction is made between the virtuous and the truly virtuous. The virtuous are those who enjoy the presence of God yet take it for granted. They do not make perfect contrition for their sins. Consequently, their sins are forgiven, but not the penalty due to their sins. "...These receive no pardon of the penalty but only of the sin itself (p.31)." But the truly virtuous are those who not only participate in the presence of God, they also are disposed to receive this presence in a humble way. As a result, their sins and the penalty due for their sins are forgiven.

In summary, St. Catherine's words to God are encouraging because she speaks to Him about some of the things relevant to my life. But God's words to Catherine are challenging because they point out the inconsistencies and weaknesses of believers. Fortunately, God would not have said these difficult things to Catherine if He did not think we could learn from them and change our ways.

Dictated by St. Catherine while in ecstasy and speaking with God. Contains page after page of divine wisdom on a host of spiritual subjects under 4 main categories: Divine Providence, Discretion, Prayer, Obedience. One of the great literary treasures if the Church. A famous classic. It was largley for this book that St. Catherine of Siena was declared a Doctor of the Church.

Saint Catherine of Siena (1347-1380) was declared a Doctor of the Church in 1970. Catherine had no formal education but yet was able to dialogue with the Pope, Bishops and many of the ecclesiastic members of the Church through the grace of God. I will quote from her treatise of prayer: "When the soul has arrived at the attainment of the general light, of which I have spoken, she should not remain contented, because, as long as you are pilgrims in this life, you are capable of growth, and he who does not go forward, by that very fact, is turning back". Powerful words in the context of living and growing in our spiritual life. No matter what stage we are in our spiritual growth, we can always test ourselves on our capacity to love and be loved. Faith, hope and love but the greatest is love. Jesus left us a new commandment to love one another as He loves us.

This book is truly to be a favorite for any Disney fan. Not only is it inspirational, but it is fun at the same time. Seeing all of the Disney characters,and their quotes,brings back many memories. It's amazing how all of the quotes from the Disney characters can really be applied to your own life. I highly reccomend this book for any one. It also makes a great gift for a friend who may be going through a rough time. It definatley will make them smile!

Wonderful and delightful. A combination of the Wonderful Magic the world of Disney brings us, along with the encouragement and lessons that will lead a child to the begining of love for self and life.

This book combines classic animated feature frames with lines from their movies that will move, touch, inspire, and delight anyone and everyone. Makes a great gift. Deffinetly worth reading and keeping on your coffee table for easy reference.

Nobody pushes a reader's emotional buttons quite like Catherine Spencer, and she doesn't disappoint in THE DOCTOR'S SECRET CHILD. Take a reformed bad boy hero, an unrepentant bad girl heroine, a rich cast of secondary characters, dialog which has you laughing one minute and crying the next, and you're left with another fabulous, five star read you won't want to see come to an end. This is a story so rooted in passion, realism and atmosphere that it belongs on every romance lover's keeper bookshelf.

The Doctor's Secret Child, Catherine Spencer's latest Harlequin Presents romance, is such an exciting story of Molly, a strong yet vulnerable young single mother. Molly faces going back to her past for her ailing mother's sake. She comes back to her humble beginnings in Harmony Cove. There she faces the harsh memories of the treatment she got from her emotionally-stunted father who recently passed away. But memories every bit as hard for Molly to deal with are of the townspeople's attitude toward the poor working class from Wharf street. Especially insensitive is their treatment of Molly, who once ws a teenager full of spirit and attitude. Molly gets the idle tongues wagging by keeping her daughter Ariel's father a secret while trying to settle in and take care of her mother.

This book pivots on the suspenseful plot Catherine Spencer draws so deftly. The characters are drawn with such compassion and show all of the contradictions of human nature. The nosy neighbor is a truly kind caretaker for Molly's mother, Hilda. Dan Cordell, the young doctor taking care of Hilda, is from a privileged famiy yet he chooses to work in a clinic caring for the disadvantaged.

How do the characters fit together and how will Molly handle the secret of who Ariel's father is? Will the fiery Molly make concessions for Ariel's sake? Will Molly find love and fulfillment? You already know some of the answers to these questions if you have read any of the many fine romances Catherine Spencer has written. The Doctor's Secret Child is the best of her many superbly written novels. Reading this book will delight you with intense descriptions of passion and charm you with the unexpected way love can triumph. The Doctor's Secret Child, Catherine Spencer's latest Harlequin Presents romance, is such an exciting story of Molly, a strong yet vulnerable young single mother. Molly faces going back to her past for her ailing mother's sake. She comes back to her humble beginnings in Harmony Cove. There she faces the harsh memories of the treatment she got from her emotionally-stunted father who recently passed away. But memories every bit as hard for Molly to deal with are of the townspeople's attitude toward the poor working class from Wharf street. Especially insensitive is their treatment of Molly, who once ws a teenager full of spirit and attitude. Molly gets the idle tongues wagging by keeping her daughter Ariel's father a secret while trying to settle in and take care of her mother.

This book pivots on the suspenseful plot Catherine Spencer draws so deftly. The characters are drawn with such compassion and show all of the contradictions of human nature. The nosy neighbor is a truly kind caretaker for Molly's mother, Hilda. Dan Cordell, the young doctor taking care of Hilda, is from a privileged famiy yet he chooses to work in a clinic caring for the disadvantaged.

How do the characters fit together and how will Molly handle the secret of who Ariel's father is? Will the fiery Molly make concessions for Ariel's sake? Will Molly find love and fulfillment? You already know some of the answers to these questions if you have read any of the many fine romances Catherine Spencer has written. The Doctor's Secret Child is the best of her many superbly written novels. Reading this book will delight you with intense descriptions of passion and charm you with the unexpected way love can triumph.

As always, Catherine Spencer has written a book that transcends the ordinary in romance. Dan Cordell is a gem of a hero, someone we would all like to take home with us. His patience with troubled Molly and his willingness to wait for her to see her own worthiness give him a charm and likability that is exceptionally well portrayed. The writing and character development are outstanding, and the ending tender and hopeful for the future. A true romance.

I used Dr. Christman's Learn to Read Book when my son was 5 years old. It takes the student systematically through phonics. The best I have seen on the subject. Great for a homeschooler on a budget.

I picked up this book in a bookstore about 2 years ago when I worked in a juvenile detention center, where many of my students lacked basic reading skills. I began using it with one or two boys who were illiterate - they did not know all of the sounds of the letters of the alphabet. Within 2 weeks, I noticed a change in them. They became "addicted" to this book - wanting to take it with them because they realized they COULD learn and that they were becoming readers. One boy in particular took the book back to his barracks every night and thrived. His entire self image changed. It is so difficult to find a book that teaches reading in a non-preschool way, but this book does it. Anyway, I am ordering another because I ended up giving the book to the boy when I changed schools, and I have missed it since! I can't wait to have it in my hands again.

I have used this book for years with teens and am getting good feedback from someone using it with an adult. Step-by-step lists of words using phonics patterns, cute cartoons, and short stories - aimed at older to adult interests. Easily adaptable to match student/tutor needs.

This lovely book proves that a picture is worth a thousand words. I am in the beginning stages of planning my dream retirement home, and I have been looking for a few select books to convey the sense of style I want. This book is the best I have found so far. Tredway's designs are very well thought out -both beautiful AND liveable looking. There are lots of photos of completed structures along with the floor plans and elevations. Please note that as of 11/03/01, the web-site listed in the book is not working. Highly recommended book.

An excellent rendering of architectural style combined with leisure homes. Space, size and style are excellent. A good choice to reveiw your needs and choose a design typical of your area, as well, I believe the author will custom design a project.

I am an investor in cottage properties and buy everything in this catagory I can get my hands on. In 20 years I have not seen such a great collection of interesting and well thought out designs. The author accompanies her designs with information which is pratical and obviously well seasoned.

I would recommend this book to anyone considering recreational construction. I also discovered that these plans and many others are available at a very reasonable cost through their toll free number or via the internet.

Refreshing!

Some mysteries may never be solved. Where did the Sumerian language come from? Who built the stones at Carnac and why? Who was buried in the Great Pyramid.

What do the mysterious inscriptions found at Easter Island say? And what were the stone statues for. Those are the mysteries of Easter Island.

The tragedy was what happened to the Easter Islanders. The westerners were not all evil, and the islanders themselves were not all good (e.g., they practiced human sacrifice) but the enslavement, kidnapping, rape etc. of the islanders by western maritime visitors is shocking even today. And the book tells that story too. So it is not just a book about the mysteries of Easter Island but about the almost complete destruction of it by Europeans and I am sad to say Americans.

And the two are related. If slavers had not taken hundreds of islanders to Chile to work as slaves, including the king and prince of the island, perhaps enough of the culture would have survived for western scholars to meet with those who could read the writings of the tablets. Perhaps we would really know why and how the islanders built their mysterious giants.

This book (published by Harry Abrams) is an English translation of one of a series of small, lavishly illustrated French historical guides. One really cannot go wrong with this series, whether in French or in English.

Everyone involved in this Easter Island book did a great job, and they produced a wonderful way for a beginner to learn about some of the strangest archeological sites on our planet.

This book provides readers with many of the facts of Easter Island. I had heard about the stone statues, but had little knowledge of the history of the island. This book provided quite a bit of information on the history and covered all the theories of the statues and what they might mean and how they got there. An excellent book!

This is a translation of "Des dieux regardent les etoiles -- Les derniers secrets de l'Ile de Paques" ("Gods gaze at the stars -- The last secrets of Easter Island"), Catherine and Michel Orliac's excellent little book about Easter Island. Easter Island and its mysteries -- from its huge statues to its strange hieroglyphics -- have been a magnet for crankery of all types, from the benign to the outrageous. How refreshing, then, it is to see such a delicious book, factual and balanced, with high-quality authentic illustrations on every page, every one of them well chosen and to the point. Almost everything you may ever want to know about Easter Island -- short of a tourist guide -- is there, with full sources and references. How so much information could have been packed in so few pages is a wonder. Complete, attractive and scholarly, this little book will appeal to all, even to the specialists. The illustrations alone are a never-ending source of wonder and delight. Highly recommended.

When you have a baby you end up buying a million books and reading everything you can. When you have your second, as I just did, you only have time to read the most practical books. This book gave me all the understandable nutritional information that I needed for a healthy pregnancy, plus 100+ great-tasting recipes that even I can cook and my family enjoys. This is one "pregancy book" that has a shelf life longer then 9 months.

Every recipe we've tried has been terrific: the ricotta cheese pancakes, the crab cakes with red pepper sauce, the turkey burgers, the cheese and spinach quesadillas... These are definitely recipes we'll keep using even after our baby is born, and ones we've already shared with friends and family (both pregnant and not). The authors include nutritional information for each recipe, as well as tips for variations and saving time while preparing the recipes. Highly recommended!

I am sixty-four years old with grown children and a grandchild and I am enjoying this book very much. The recipes are tasty, easy with well-written directions. Being a vegetarian, I especially enjoy the many meatless recipes and the nutritional information. This book is chock full of good information for anyone at any stage in their life.

These stories touched me. As an Irish American woman, I found touchstones for my own experience in the lives of Brady's characters, women who are sometimes submissive, sometimes rebellious, but always strong in spirit. I was so moved by the book I looked on MetaCrawler for more information about the author. I found her website at http://members.xoom/mahri/cbrady.html. There's an interview with the author that offers insight into the stories as well as a reader's guide. The women in the stories are struggling to meet the demands of work and the needs of their families, and this really struck me as an issue any woman today can relate to.

Ms. Brady is to be watched, or better, read. These stories offer a contemporary bop on the lives of American women of Irish descent (and I do mean descent). The characters are beautifully drawn with great subtlety and wit; and the stories give us hope -- which we need in this dark world of ours. I read them all in two sittings.

This collection of short stories gives an insightful, creative, amazing twist to the lives of working class, Irish American women who are held back in life by guilt and religious beliefs, but when they try, they astound everyone!