While this series is small, it is one of the finest I have read. I won't spoil anything in the book, but make sure you read "The Brotherhood Of The Rose" and "The Fraternity Of The Stone" before you read this. It isn't IMPERATIVE, but it highly recommended. Also, once you get these books, clear out your weekend. You'll need it.

Fast delievery, EXCELLENT CONDITION...remarkable, would use again. thanks!

This is the third and last book of trilogy. This book consist Saul Grisman and Drew Maclane characters together where they meet each other in the story for the first time. Be sure to read The Brotherhood of the Rose book first (Saul Grisman novel) and The Fraternity of the Stone book second (Drew MacLane novel).

Rambo 2 is the startling account of one of the true icons of our culture and his struggle against corruption in the military, the ghosts of his painful past and his longing for true love. The writing here is some of the finest prose written in this century. The words flow effortlessly and carry the reader through every breathtaking moment. Morrell is a genius and this novel should be taught in every college literature program. Morell's writing can be complex at times but several readings will be rewarded with enlightenment and life-changing affirmations. The film is also a masterpiece and Stallone's acting is stellar (why he wasn't nominated for best actor is beyond me) but read the book first! Do not deprive yourself. Read Rambo 2!

The most dangerous man in the world is back in this novel (and Movie) and this time it's for his country! Co-written by David Morrell (FIRST BLOOD), he intended for Rambo to die in the first book, but Sylvester Stallone liked the character so much that he and James Cameron brought Rambo back for a sequel.

John Rambo is in a Kentucky prison for the bloody one-man war against small town Sherif Teasle. Colonel Trautman offers Rambo's signed release if he agrees to take on what would be a suicide mission for most men. His first objective--penetrate the remembered jungles of Hell (Vietnam), and find the missing Americans who are still being tortured there. His second objective--DON'T rescue them. Only bring back photos. DON'T engage the enemy. DON'T get revenge. For Rambo, the first part is tough. The second, impossible.

But Rambo does agree to the conditions. He goes to Vietnam only to be abandoned by his only means of getting out of Vietnam, who have left on the orders of the Commanding officer Murdock to leave him there to be killed.

But remember, this is Rambo. A killing machine trained by the best to survive in the worst conditions. He decides that if Murdock will back out of his side of the deal, he's going to do the same. Forget taking pictures of the P.O.W. camps. Rambo's going to become a one-man army once again, and is going in to save them....and then he's going after Murdock for abandoning him.

This is a book which takes constant re-reading and reading within context: that is, pick one theme, and read the entire book in search of all Morrell has to say about that theme. This book is completely indispensible to anyone wishing to deal in post-modern philosophy and existentialism: it is a secular philosopher's bible. Dealing in systematic brilliance throughout the experience of life, Morrell delves into psychology and theological ideas while remaining true to his own purely atheistic and philosophical roots.

Dense? Sure... but illuminating examples help to describe the deep thought, almost as parables in the Synoptic Gospels. The crag in the rock, the meeting at the cafe, all these verbal illustrations work into the text very well. Personally, I love the sections on the anguish of man when faced with the facticity of his own freedom. The dualism expressed by Morrell is a theme in philosophy which I usually don't enjoy (like any good post-Hegelian, I enjoy synthesizing opposites), he is able to pull it off with ease and magnificence. Though it is not as eloquent as the existentialism expressed by Albert Camus, it is every bit as enlightening and valuable.

Most people object to its density because they are used to the existential wanderings of the modern novel - Camus' The Stranger, or Dostoyevsky's Crime and Punishment - but this is the philosophical reflection of the situation of man expressed by such work. Morrell states early on that he is not performing an objective analysis of humankind, but rather a biased and understandably nuanced description of ontology from the perspective of the modern man.

Brilliant and exciting, Rambo : First Blood Part II is an essential part of anyone philosopher's bookshelf!

In David Morrell's new novel, "The Protector," the hero is Cavanaugh (one name only), who used to be an operative in Delta Force. He is trained to handle threats with professionalism and expertise. As an employee of Global Protective Services, Cavanaugh has been assigned to guard a scientist named Daniel Prescott. Cavanaugh plans to help Prescott escape his pursuers permanently by providing him with a brand new identity.

What Cavanaugh does not know is that Prescott is hiding some deadly secrets. Cavanaugh soon realizes that keeping Prescott alive will prove to be a difficult and costly task. Not only does the scientist have many enemies who will do anything to catch him, but he is a dangerous and paranoid man who trusts no one. Cavanaugh and his wife, Jamie, soon find themselves in a desperate struggle to survive, as the protector becomes a potential victim.

There are enough gun battles, fires, explosions and general mayhem in this book to satisfy the most bloodthirsty readers. The action is non-stop, and although the book is not particularly realistic, it is exciting and engrossing. Cavanaugh is a smart and well-trained operative, but he is also fallible and vulnerable, which is refreshing in an action-adventure novel. Cavanaugh's wife, Jamie, is a strong and capable fighter, and she and her husband make an effective team. If you like terse dialogue, danger and adrenaline-fueled battles to the death, then "The Protector" is the novel for you.

With The Protector, David Morrell grabs his reader at the beginning of the book and does not let go. This is a fast-paced, page-turning thriller. The main character is Cavanaugh, a former Delta Force commando who now works as a protector for Global Protective Services. When his latest assignment takes a terrible turn, Cavanaugh becomes both the hunter and the hunted as he tries to unravel the mystery and extract a basic form of justice. Beyond the plot's twists, turns, action, and suspense, Morrell brings together an interesting cast of characters who complement Cavanaugh's character. All-in-all, The Protector is a real winner from Morrell. His fans will clearly be happy with this latest effort.

This is a page-turner from the get go. Cavanaugh is a protector, one notch up from a bodyguard - a specially trained ex-government agent for hire. Daniel Prescott has invented a powerful new drug, and everyone from the drug cartels of South America to the U.S. Federal government is after him, and he hires Cavanaugh to protect him. But Prescott kills Cavanaugh's associates and tries to take Cavanaugh out too, then takes off, and Cavanaugh goes on the hunt for Prescott. The action is non-stop in this well written and well researched book. In fact, Morrell suffered a broken collarbone researching one of the weapons used - the knife on the cover of the book. This is yet another Morrell book that I could not put down - I stayed up until the middle of the night to finish it.

It's an interesting book for someone who aspires to write a novel. But I did not find nearly as much practical advice and instruction as I hoped. For example, there are only a few pages on plotting your novel. Evan Marshall's book on novel-writing, on the other hand, has about 60 pages.

This book is more of a pep talk, a "you can do it" kind of thing. If that's what you're looking for, this is it. But for something to help you get a novel written, I'd look elsewhere. Marshall's, which I mentioned, is a favorite of mine, but there are others, too.

This is not the best writing book for those who have already read such books and for those who are already somewhat expiereinced at writing; That, however, is not who it is targeted at or who it is best for (as the title suggests). It is for people who are interested inwriting but have probably not started--or just not been at it long--who are new to writing books. It is great at providing the basic and practical advice every writer needs in the beginning, and it provides a very important asset for the beginner: motivation.

I've read more than a few good books on writing; several are quite inspirational. The difference here is that this book is practical. I wrote my first novel following the guidelines set forth in Collier and Leighton's book, and I sold it to a major publishing company. Inspiration is great; inspiration plus methodology is better.

Ever since my friend got me to read Fraternity of the Stone, I've been reading Morrell books almost non-stop. Assumed Identity was a rather good book...except for the conclusion. The build-up and climax of the book are great (I especially liked the game), but I felt so deserted when the story ends without bringing Juana to light. I was disappointed by that fact, especially after Morrell dedicated an entire sub-chapter to her. It's good, but not his best.

This was my second Morrell book after 'Brotherhood of the Rose'. I will definately read more of Morrell's books. I don't like mindless action books but a story where the characters are 'human' and their journey involves action-orineted situations. This is that type of journey.

I agree that the ending for me was a bit dissapointing, there was so much left unresolved.

Assumed Identity starts with a brilliant premise -- an intelligence operative who is as much a Method actor as he is a spy -- and runs with it for over 400 pages. However, what makes this book special is not its intricate plot,but it's character study of a burned-out, tormented figure, Brendan Buchanan.

Certainly the most complex individual I've come across in years of reading spy novels, Buchanan is a masterpiece of characterization. So skilled is he at assuming false identities in the course of his work that his own identity is all but gone. And the battle he wages -- to find his former love, protect his new partner, and save his own life -- is as much to defeat the evil facing him as it is to get his life back, if that's even possible.

Assumed Identity also is one of David Morrell's most plausible works. Morrell has played fast and loose with spy tradecraft and facts in previous books, like The Fraternity of the Stone and The Brotherhood of the Rose, but he's clearly done his homework here.

David Morrell has evoked comparisons with Graham Greene and Ernest Hemingway. I think he deserves them, and Assumed Identity is proof positive of his talent.

Daid Morrell's books are full of action and thrills but this one from 1973 is a little on the tame side. BUT if you are interested in the save the planet theme you will find this story very good and you may even agree with action taken by the heretics or you might like the beliefs of the members of the Inquistion. WHAT?? Heretics? Inquisition? In this day and age? Lest you think Morrell has lost his touch, wait until you come to the fantastic ending ! The story plods along with all sorts of earth saving actions and the leading character, Tess Drakewho works for Mother Earth magazine finds herself in the middle of all sorts of attacks on her life and those whom she loves. The mystery surrounding all this dates back to pre=Christian history of the Mithraism movement and if you don't want to test your faith don't read this one 1 The action really heats up when Tess and her police lt. friend find themselves aboard Air Force 2 headed for Spain. Who can save them now? You won't put the book down until the very end which will leave you wondering about your soul and the future of all mankind and this planet earth we so glibly ride.

Though his more recent novels have been an enormous disappointment, "Covenant of the Flame," is, in my opinion, David Morrell's greatest novel. It is everything a thriller should be: intense, exciting, interesting and intelligently written. I, literally, could not put this book down. If ever a page turner was penned, this book is certainly it. I usually don't re-read novels, but "Covenant..." is, without doubt, the exception. I highly recommend not only this book but also all the pre-"Assumed Identity" ones which are also excellent. "Assumed Identity" signaled, as far as I'm concerned, the beginning of the end. As a once die-hard Morrell fan, I am more than a little saddened by the turn his writing has taken these past few years.

Mystery, religion and action surround our heroine, Tess Drake as she struggles to hold on to her life while trying to solve a murder. Mysterious religious organizations, environmental disasters whereby the culprits' punishments fit the crime, trying to pick out the "good guys" from the "bad" and a strong female character leading the way are the elements that stood out. Morrell's style of writing is straightforward, suspenseful and has some interesting ideas. History and religious battles are intriguingly weaved in his story. The lead character is down-to-earth, but with conviction on her ideals. An enjoyable read -- it's my first book by David Morrell... I've read it several times already... then went out and bought The Fifth Profession and look forward to checking out more by him.

This was my first book by David Morrell, and it came highly recommended. Overall I'd say it was somewhat entertaining, but with so many flaws I can't strongly recommend it.

One of the first things I noticed was how affected the dialogue comes across, a problem which prevades throughout. Some authors just can't do it well, and if this is representative of Morrell's other work, then he should go with (even) more action in his stories. Conversations were just plain stilted most of the time, conjuring up a bad soap opera or melodrama. I just didn't find the characters interracted with each other with any sense of the depth he clearly wanted to convey.

The plot did have some interesting turns, but I found the end which tied everything together not at all plausible. Yeah, I understand this is action-oriented fiction, but I've read other such stuff and found it just a whole lot more believeable (or at least required less suspension of disbelief). And that was quite a let down, since the book build you up to this climax for 450 prior pages.

Overall this is the kind of stuff Michael Crichton does a whole lot better.

" The Fifth Profession " by David Morrell is a non stop page turner full of action and a twisting plot through out. The novel is about the adventure of two "Ronin" (bodygaurds) sworn to find the answer behind their nightmares. Savage is an ex American Navy Seal who is a professional bodyguard who takes high risk jobs. He specializes in security, hand to hand combat, and weaponrey. Akira who is also a Ronin is a brilliant Japaness who is a master of samuria and protection. Both men are subject to a shocking event when they meet for the first time on a job. Months later they suprisingly meet each other again and embark on a journey to find out what or who pulled them through hell and back. This book takes you from the streets of New York to Japan, this mystery is full of intrigue and great action. Thought you don't learn any morals from reading this book you learn alot about Japaness folklore and culture. A must read for any adventure/mystery reader.

Unfortunately, the latest works from David Morrell were way below par in my opinion. Assumed Identity, to me was a turning point in his writing. Too me, that was his last good book. However, if one goes back a few years it is easy to see how good a writer Morrell was. The 5th Profession is a great example of the good old Morrell. From the dramatic opening, retelling the Japanese 47 Ronin Story the book will grab you. The contrast and commonalities between a former Navy Seal and a Ronin Samurai make great reading. This is a fun book to read on the train, plane, or beach. This is the way I like to remember David Morrell.

This is the kind of book that many of us like to read during vacation or on a relaxing weekend. The plot begins with an interesting twist and then moves along quickly. Morrell has certainly developed the knack for ending a chapter with a sentence that almost forces you to start the next chapter.

While "Desperate Measures" doesn't develop the psychological depth or plot as some of his earlier books did, it does entertain.

This book is one of the fastest reads ever. I just couldn't stop turning the pages. Morrell really knows how to move a story along and throw in some decent characters that are sometimes a bit soapy, but will fit the purpose of the writers intention. Every know and then it is time for a zippadi-do-da read and this book more than fullfils that promise.

David Morrell has done it again. Desperate Measures caught my eye and never let go. The plot was unusual but fascinating. (with David Morrell as the author I wasn't suprised)A great novel to get yourself into, I also suggest another book of his "The Covenant Of The Flame" is also a great novel to read.

I will never look at a snowcapped mountain the same way again! This is David Morrell's finest page-turning book ever. Definitely prepare to ignore the rest of the world from the gripping first chapter until the final word. David Morrell is superb at making you feel you are in the hearts of his characters and the story. You can literally feel and taste the falling snowflakes on your face and your muscles will ache in this, I think, his best and most thrilling novel to date. You will shiver again and again from cold fear while you are caught up in the extremely suspenseful story. The cold and snow will definitey haunt me forever.

This book is extremely fast paced and somewhat disturbing. It is one of those page turners that keeps you up all night reading and tired at work the next day. The introduction by Morrell makes you wonder about the stories ending. It's ending is unexpected and if you go back and read the last 2 or 3 paragraphs of the introduction, you have something that keeps you thinking about the book for 2 or 3 days. I highly recommend this book and any other book written by Morrell

This is the first time I have ever reviewed anything on the internet, I gues I never felt the passion that I feel about this book. There seems to be alot of mixed review of this book which surprises me. I remember the first time I ever read this book, I was interrupted by an exam I had to take and had to set down the book for several months. After finally getting back to the book months later, I picked up where I left off, to my surprize I remembered every last detail. It is just one of those books that creaps up on you and won't let you be. It has been a good 7 years since I read it and I have to say it is still the best novel I have read to date. I am a big fan of David Morrell, but this novel is the leader of the pack. To start off it has by far the most shocking oppenner I have ever read in any book and the ending leaves you thinking. Out of all the books I've read this one stands out the most, definately Unforgettable. I still to this date remember the book, and every scene vividly.

this was the first book i read by morrell, although his reputation preceded him. i thought the portion of double image devoted to questions of identity in photographic subjects was fairly well-developed, but -- as other reviewers have noted -- the story is divided between plots that never entirely line up and whose thematic parallels falter. morrell resists several conventions of his genre (most notably the singular narrative structure that allows readers to progress from first to last page without pausing for reflection), and this resistance creates possibilities in the relationship between narrator and reader that could have been developed to much greater effect. as a result, this book could have been better in one of two ways: either morrell should have stuck with convention and written two separate, fully-matured novels (one about documentary/news photography, the other about mysterious attractions between a photographer and another photographer's model); or he should have thought through the possibilities open to a new literary form employing best-seller readability with resistant structural challenges that not only force readers to pause and reflect, but also offer some conceptual insight into the functionings of photography as a whole.

I have never read David Morrell's books before and this is my first introduction to it. It was very interesting and I had a hard time putting it down at times. And I love how it was two stories (or two cases) in the book ~~ two chases for Coltrane to live through!

Coltrane, a photographer, is caught photographing mass burial grounds in Bosnia and endured through one hell of which he survived. Then as he thought he was free to enjoy life again ~~ he runs into a reknown photographer who commissioned him to take pictures like his first famous series. Then Packard died ~~ leaving behind a mystery about the most beautiful face in his collection. Coltrane ends up trying to solve that mystery only to find himself in danger. It was a fairly quick read ~~ full of twists and turns! Just when you thought you solved the dilemma ~~ you were taken for a surprise and compelled to read more.

If you are into mysteries, this book is a great one! It's great for those beach reads too ~~ not too dark on the mind or spirits either ~~ but not that slow ~~ so pick it up and enjoy!

4-25-03

I've read Morrell's novels. He's the one author that I can always depend on for exciting and thought-provoking reading. David's the author that got me into reading suspense novels in the first place and it "greatly" disturbs me that most of the critics here are slamming him so hard. "Reads like a soap-opera" -- the dialogue in this book may be trite, but, I believe, there was a purpose for the femme-fatale who used these words. She was lost in theatrics for all her life -- a trait she recieved from her mother (another part of the plot that I found interesting). She was an actor, who used an actor's, typically, simple language to intice and control the men who would so easily be drawn to her. I believe this effect was planned by Morrell. David had a purpose to how he wrote the novel. I have never read a novel by him that lacked a purpose and, I think, that the reviewers out there who had a problem with this book are perhaps lacking depth themselves. I feel very sorry for those people and their disposition over this novel. To all the people out there who loved Double Image. Thank you for appreciating this wonderfully intriguing novel. I, simply, cannot wait 'til we hear from David Morrell again. David, if you're reading this, thank you for your great stories. Thank you for showing me how good a novel can be.