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• Amazon Sales Rank: #33768 in Books
• Published on: 2008-08-25
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 448 pages

Features

• ISBN13: 9780470118665
• Condition: USED - VERY GOOD
• Notes:
• Click here to view our Condition Guide and Shipping Prices

ANOTHER GEM FROM CIA
This is the second book from the Culinary Institude of America that I have bought, the first being Chocolates and Confections by Grewelling. They are both luxury editions by Wiley.
The author Mr Francisco Migoya has studied in both France (which is always a good sign) and Mexico. He has produced an exceptional piece of work, a labor of love concerning all kinds of frozen desserts and their presentation.
The whole edition is characterised by class and quality, printed on gloss paper, with lots of photographs, most of them full page.
There are tables throughout with interesting and helpful information.
The measurements used are both Metric and Imperial weights. No cups and spoons here, they allow too much space for error.
I have to note that this is a book strictly for professionals, using equipment only available to them like Ice Cream machines, chillers, blast freezers, precision scales etc. The only way in which a home cook can benefit from the content is by being inspired from the decorations and try to impress their guests using home made or commercial Ice cream.
The book itself is divided into eight main chapters:
1) A brief history of frozen desserts.
2) Ingredients.
3) Equipment,Machines, and Tools.
4) Dairy based frozen desserts.
5) Non dairy frozen desserts.
6) Aerated still frozen desserts.
7) Finished items.
Base recipes.

In the introduction the author mentions that he has mainly worked on plated desserts throughout his career and the book reflects that, as most creations are plated and for the hotel or cafe industry, which is of course the main market for frozen desserts. There are several frozen entremets (whole gateaux) but they are the exeption, not the rule.

The first chapter gives a concise history of frozen desserts, and a history chapter is a feature of many serious books on the culinary sphere (eg The French Professional Pastry Series), descending directly from the French Culinary Tradition.

The chapter on ingredients describes all the ingredients used in frozen dessert production, giving thorough information especially for the main ingredients. The different kinds of sugars used are given ( eg trimoline, glucose) and their effects on the finished products are discussed. Also the many types of stabilisers and emulsifiers are discussed and combinations for Ice cream or sorbets are constructed.

The chapter on equipment and machines deals with all the machines necessary for ice cream production from scales to mixers to freezers and their sanitation. The Paco Machine is included, something I have not seen in any other book.

The Dairy-based Frozen Dessert section deals with the different aspects of Frozen Dairy production, like the type, (eg custard based Ice cream, Gelato etc)the method (both the Paco and the Machine-churning methods are discussed) and the overrun.

The Non Dairy Frozen Desserts chapter deals with Sorbets, Granitas etc displaying the different methods as well as base recipes.

The Aerated Still-Frozen desserts deal with Parfaits, Bombes, Semifreddo, Frozen Souffles and Mousses. These products are not churned, but are rather produced like normal mousses and then frozen.

The Finished Items chapter is by far the largest and it displays finished frozen preparations on the plate or otherwise. Recipes for bases are included eg Financier, Milk chocolate foam, basic Jelly, French Macaron, cold sweet soups and sauces, making this an almost all inclusive Pastry and Frozen dessert book. Creations range from normal to outright exotic and they include:
French macaron, cassis sorbet and almond ice cream sandwiches.
Burned milk gelato with mexican hot chocolate.
Popcorn sherbet with caramel popcorn and caramel sauce.
Matcha sorbet with toasted black sesame cigars.
Assorted citrus sorbet sandwiches.
Guava sorbet in chilled Hibiscus soup with crisp meringue sticks.
Some recipes combine savory and sweet ingredients, like Cucumber and Wasabi sorbet, Green zebra tomato sorbet, Rye bread Ice cream and Jalapeno sorbet.

The decorations are in the modern style, beautiful, somewhat minimal, usually simple but not simplistic and the excellent photos display every detail.

For the frozen dessert recipes you are referred to the base recipe section which includes methods and formulas for many creations including Banana ice cream, Mascarpone ice cream, Balsamic vinegar ice cream, Praline ice cream, Kumquat sorbet, Yuzu sorbet, Passion fruit sorbet, Buttermilk sherbet, Almond mint granite, Mimosa ice pops, Praline parfait,Espresso semifreddo, Peanut butter bombe, Frozen basil souffle.

After the main chapters follow appentices on several subjects like Average sugar, solids and acid content of fruit or Mathematical formulation of sorbets.
In the last pages there is a Glossary, Bibliography, Internet references, Resources section, a recipe index and a subject index.

The price for all this work is a giveaway. The normal price for this kind of professional books is at least triple.

A book for professionals, or ambitious amateurs
C. Terzis’ review is comprehensive, so I’ll just add a couple more thoughts. First, you CAN make family-sized quantities of these recipes if you are willing to do the math and scale down some of the recipes. Otherwise, you do need professional equipment to hold the gallons of milk, cream, etc. called for to produce commercial-sized batches.

Second, there are quite a number of cake/cookie/mousse recipes included in the book, and for the most part, they produce reasonable amounts for a home cook. Most of the ingredients called for are not hard to find in major cities, but may be harder to find in smaller towns. For example, you can find PVC pipes at a hardware store, and acetate sheets at many office supply stores. The author does provide a small list of internet suppliers at the back of the book which may be of use in finding some items.

Finally, the paper quality, photos, and dessert platings in this book are outstanding. The instructions are detailed, although they could have used a bit more editing. For example, sometimes articles and modifiers are left out, so you’re not sure what the instructions refer to, unless you read on a bit, and then you can figure it out. For example, if the book says “push into the PVC pipe,” and doesn’t clarify WHAT you are supposed to push into the pipe (since there are several components to the dessert), it’s a bit of a puzzle. This is a minor point, but it does get annoying after a while. The glossary could use a bit of work, too, as it defines some, but not all of the more esoteric commercial ingredients called for in some of the recipes.

A wonderful book that is a great source of inspiration, especially if you are looking for one that provides instructions, recipes, and photos of complex desserts made up of multiple components. I agree that it’s a bargain for the price!

A wonderful book, but recipes are in “restaurant proportions” — Photos are spectacular, and recipes are perfect
The author is a desert specialist from the Culinary Institute of America, and presents readers with top chef quality recipes. The book is actually aimed at fellow professional chefs, and serious amateurs, since the recipes are all in restaurant proportions. So you will need your calculator or good simple math skills to divide the ingredients proportions to make the ice cream and other wonderful deserts in home kitchen proportions. Just as a table book, the book is worth buying. The photography is simply beautiful. Yet, I wish the author had made an attempt to supply home kitchen proportions alongside the restaurant proportions. In a future edition of this book, the author should consider dual proportions table for ingredients. It’s a must buy anyway for anyone serious about gourmet deserts.

Getting In: A Step-By-Step Plan for Gaining Admission to Graduate School in Psychology Description:

Getting In, Second Edition is an update of the American Psychological Association’s essential resource for anyone considering graduate study in psychology. This handy, readable book simplifies the process for applicants and increases their chances of being accepted. Useful timelines, tips, and tools break the tasks into manageable steps and help readers define their goals, select programs, and navigate the application process. A monthly timetable and detailed worksheets for selecting the best program matches are included, and a resource section provides a list of publications and organizations that are useful in the various phases of applying. Readers will learn what criteria admissions committees use to evaluate applicants, how to improve their qualifications, and how to showcase their talents in personal essays, letters of recommendations, and preselection interviews. The costs of a graduate education and financial aid information specific to graduate students are also discussed. Members of special populations, such as women, ethnic minorities, gay and lesbian applicants, and applicants with disabilities will find resources and guidance particular to their needs. While applying to graduate school can be challenging, this book demystifies the process and allays students’ concerns about how to tackle it.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #19899 in Books
• Published on: 2007-03-15
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 230 pages

Features

• ISBN13: 9781591477990
• Condition: NEW
• Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.

Customer Reviews:

Tells you everything you need to know
The APA considers a doctorate to be the entry-level degree for a career as a psychologist. The best programs are accredited by the APA, and the competition to gain acceptance is quite fierce. This book is an exceptional guide to understanding the entire process.

Written primarily for an undergraduate audience, it begins by leading the undergraduate through a careful self-assessment to determine if the skills, interests and resources are realistically available to support completion of a graduate program. The next chapter is an overview of career options and licensure issues, and covers this material in a more useful manner that Sternberg’s “Career Paths in Psychology.”

The earlier in your college work that you read this book, the more useful chapter four will be. It explains what graduate programs are looking for in GPA, GRE, letter of recommendation, experience, essay, etc., and how you can position yourself to compete effectively for acceptance. I do not believe that planning for graduate admission can begin too early.

Chapter five takes one through the process of selecting a graduate school, and chapter six focuses on completion and coordination of the application process. One graduate program that I have talked to eliminates over half of its applicants because the application process in not completed as required!

Less than 10% of applicants are accepted into APA programs. The concluding chapter provides therapeutic advice regarding non-acceptance, as well as generally accepted protocols for dealing with multiple acceptances. Checklists and timelines are provided throughout this book to assist you. Every resource you could possibly need is listed in an appendix, as are a list of APA divisions, an early planning checklist for juniors, and a list of state licensing authorities.

Read this book before you ask your professors for advice. That alone may tend to prove that you are graduate material.

Got me into Grad school
This book was one of the best investments i ever made (especially considering the fact that it is so cheap, a big bonus for poor undergrad students). I bought this book, read it, followed all of its advice faithfully - don’t be lazy about it! (like typing in the info on the paper application rather than hand-writing it). It helped me complete the applications, prepare for the interviews and know how to turn down the programs i chose not to go to. Yes, this book was so helpful that i got into more than one APA accredited doctoral level clinical psychology program. Even when it seemed hopeless, this short, no-nonsense concrete guide kept me going. My experience proves that it’s possible and that your chances go up A LOT if you get a book to tell you how to go about it. Don’t ruin your chances with a careless approach, put in the 10 bucks and the few hours to read this, and you will NOT be sorry.

Edited in Dec ‘06 to add: I got my doctorate and just passed the licensing exam! I still think this book was a huge help in getting me accepted.

Very informative. A must.
Well, I pretty much have all I need to know.
I’m a college junior right now and I have been wondering about going to grad school but really didn’t know much about how to get in or what I needed to get in. All I knew before this book was, I wanted to go, and these are the schools I want to go to. Believe me, it’s way more complicated than that. The very best thing about this book for Psychology majors, like myself, is that the book is provided by the American Psychological Association. To me, there is no better source than hearing what you need to do straight from the APA.
The book doesn’t just talk about what you need to do to get into grad school it also tells you, in detail, how you should do it, which very important. But wait a minute, maybe your not 100% sure about even going to grad school, don’t worry, this book breaks it down for you. It goes over what will be expected from you, from most school depending on the program, and helps you to understand what type of work to expect, how much work to expect and how much free time to dedicate to your studies. Basically providing you with enough information to make the decision for yourself, “Is grad school right for me”.
There is no doubt in my mind that if you are a Psychology major who is planning to go to grad school this book will help and inform you. It definitely set me in the right direction to make sure I get into grad school.

Thor, Vol. 2 Description:

We say thee HELL YEAH! With the mighty God of Thunder and Asgard to full glory, Thor is back in action with a vengeance! But as the Asgardians returned to this life and Thor returned to Midgard, so came the ills that have plagued the gods and man for millennia. Now, for the first time since their rebirth, Thor and his fellow hero-gods must venture forth from the Shining City to confront the growing evils that amass on their horizon - and within their walls. Collects Thor #7-600.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #14706 in Books
• Published on: 2009-08-26
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 200 pages

Features

• ISBN13: 9780785117605
• Condition: NEW
• Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.

Customer Reviews:

JMS’ Thor run continues, and continues to be very enjoyable.
J. Michael Strackzynski’s first six issues on “Thor” featured the return of the Norse god and his people from the abyss into which they had entered following Ragnarok. It was a story high on mythic resonance and beautifully illustrated, but low on action and, I argued in my review, somewhat too slowly paced. With the setup out of the way, Volume 2 collects issues #7-12 and the renumbered #600 (an anniversary achieved by adding the numbers of this and the previous two volumes of “Thor” comics together), all written by Stracynski (save some of the anniversary material) and illustrated primarily by Olivier Coipel and Marko Djurdjevic. Some spoilers follow.

When examining the strengths of this volume compared to the previous one, the first thing worth noticing is the increased variance in the stories told. The first volume often seemed to be replaying the same conversation over and over again. The volume opens with a Djurdjevic-illustrated two-parter that sees Thor, having expended most of his power in the previous story, entering the Odinsleep (now the “Thorsleep”) in order to rejuvenate himself. There he encounters the spirit of his father Odin, and learns of the fate of the demon Surtur, and some important information about Odin’s own early life (which will be revisited later). Following that, issues 9-12 cover a variety of stories, including an issue primarily from Balder’s perspective, an issue from Loki’s, and a poignant commemoration of the death of Steve Rogers, aka Captain America, Thor’s close friend.

Of these stories, #11 and 12 merit close consideration. The former, the Rogers anniversary issue, contains some of Strackzysnki’s best writing, in the scene in which Thor succeeds in summoning the spirit of his deceased comrade (Coipel’s rendering of this scene is brilliant). At the same time, the point that JMS seeks to communicate here, namely, that Captain America should not be a politicized concept or used as a cudgel to lobby for one side, while a good idea in principle, also represents a colossal act of chutzpah on the part of the writer. Any follower of JMS’ Marvel work will know that he was the prime mover behind turning “Civil War” into evil Bush-fascist Iron Man vs. saintly liberal-Democrat Captain America. Perhaps this could be read as his mea culpa, I suppose. The latter issue, as Loki time-travels into the past to insure his own future, reminded me strongly of a similar episode of “Gargoyles”, and has some very strong sequences, though only time will tell whether the serious rewrite of Loki’s historic motivations here will be considered a good thing (JMS essentially removes the idea that Loki and Thor’s falling-out was a slow, natural process; Loki is now rotten from the start).

Finally, there is the big one: #600. Loki’s scheming comes to a head, and, without going too much into detail, it is only fitting that it is this point that the book enters the realm of the “Dark Reign” currently featured in the Marvel Universe. My main complaint about this story is, simply, how stupid it makes Thor and Balder look. Whatever excuses you wish to make of them, they more or less stood around while Loki assembled the deathray in front of them, all the while occasionally telling Loki that they were watching her. For a writer best known for his subtle depictions of human emotional states, Loki’s entire storyline possesses all the finesse of a sledgehammer hitting an eggshell.

Looking over this review, one might think I have a lower opinion of this series than I do, but I offer these criticisms in the spirit of JMS’ series, which positions itself as a very intellectual story. I couldn’t rate it any lower than 4 stars (and there is no sequence anywhere near as awful as the Iron Man fight in Volume 1), but I don’t feel it sufficiently meets its own goals to the extent of earning five. Recommended, nonetheless.

Straczynski and Coipel have done it again!
I’ll begin by saying that if Amazon allowed us to make half-star ratings, I would be giving this book 4.5 stars rather than 5, for reasons I will get to later.
In this second volume of Straczynski’s run on Thor, we see even more character development and even more beautiful artwork by Olivier Coipel. This time around, Marko Djurdjevic fills in on art duties for 2 chapters. Djurdjevic’s art fits nicely into the series, creating a grittier visual experience when compared to Coipel’s cleaner, more refined art. The art here never misses a beat. The battle scenes, settings, character expressions, and dialogs are wonderfully depicted.
While the first volume of this title dealt with Thor’s rebirth and the recreation of Asgard, this book delves more into the history and politics of Asgard, Thor’s royal lineage, and Loki’s scheming. As the book progresses, we get a truer sense of Loki in his/her new form, and we find out for sure where his/her intentions lie. It’s a load of fun to sit back as this villian is slowly established. Because of the shift in focus, Thor himself takes a back stage to much of the plot, but the story never suffers.

Compared to the last volume, this one has much more action. We see wonderfully rendered battles on snowy plains between the noble Asgardians and their enemies, the brutal frost giants. The final chapter (Thor #600) shows an intense urban battle between Thor and his grandfather Bor, and Norman Osborn’s Dark Avengers make an appearance as well. This reminds us that this wonderful fantasy story takes place within the Marvel Universe with superheroes and all. In fact, this juxtaposition is one thing that makes the story work as well as it does. On one hand, we see epic struggles between the Gods, but on the other, we see classic superhero battles and Thor’s mortal host Dr. Donald Blake (sort of like a secret identity, only they share a body and not a mind) going about trying to make connections with people from his past.
My only complaint about the book is when Thor visits the grave of Captain America on the anniversary of his death. Cap’s ghost is summoned and a dialogue ensues between the two former Avengers. The problem with this event is that 1.) nothing that was said is really relevant to Thor, and 2.) The anniversary of Cap’s death is officially happening in the upcoming 600th issue of Captain America. Continuity errors are almost guaranteed to happen, and it’s a shame because this scene of the book is one of the low points in the Thor series as a whole, and could easily never have happened. But it’s a minor nitpick and I’m willing to let it slide.
So definitely pick this book up and try to get caught up with the Thor series. It’s truly one of Marvel’s best books right now, and it may only be a matter of time until writer Straczynski moves on to other projects.

Top Notch Work
I recently got into Thor and I must say, it is a good time to start. The pencilling and coloring is great, the art really jumps off the pages and is exactly what I would imagine the denizens of Asgard to look like. The writing is also spectacular, from the misguided nobility of Balder, to the machinations of Loki to the heroic deeds of Thor. This collection is a must have for any comic fan.

Infinite Possibilities: The Art of Living Your Dreams Description:

Understanding is the elixir that reveals your place in eternity, and with it your beliefs can be aligned and your imagination ignited to achieve anything you can dream of.

We are spiritual beings filled with infinite potential — adventuring through a field of possibilities, creating our own reality, our own fate, and our own luck.

Infinite Possibilities is a fresh and inspiring look at how each of us can turn within to discover our true purpose, ignite our imagination, and manifest our desires. Mike Dooley explains that our dreams are not accidental or inconsequential, but rather serve as invitations to understand the truths about ourselves, hinting at the lives we can create. Once you learn to open your heart and mind, thinking far beyond what spirituality has traditionally meant, it becomes evident that life itself is the ultimate adventure, filled with opportunities that day by day lead us to discover who we really are and why we are here.

A profound exploration into the mysteries of the universe, Infinite Possibilities opens windows, doors, and unexpected pathways to a bold and fulfilling way of living. Prepare to be astounded and challenged by Mike Dooley’s guide to living the life of your dreams — purposefully, lovingly, brilliantly.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #4075 in Books
• Published on: 2009-09-08
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 304 pages

Features

• ISBN13: 9781582702261
• Condition: USED - ACCEPTABLE
• Notes:

Customer Reviews:

This is the only thing you’ll ever need.
I dont even know what to say, except that this set of 12 audio CD’s outdoes ANYTHING I’ve ever read or listened to or known before in my life-quest of improving myself, realizing my dreams, and searching for the “answers” in life.

This will be the best money you’ve ever spent.

Mike Dooley doesnt talk about creating your life like, say, Anthony Robbins…..and I used to like Anthony Robbins. They both have some of the same ideas, except that Robbins requires all this “work” and “effort” and “practice” to get what you want….while Dooley seems to have a true understanding of the “crux” of topics he discusses….and you learn that “creating” requires little more than belief. And there’s no jumping up and down and yelling, like with Anthony Robbins!
This is thoughtful, quiet, inspiration at it’s very best.

There are some CD’s that I have listened to 3 and 4 times, because they are so incredible. No crazy stories or doctrines….instead, he gets to the “bottom” of our belief systems, and our role in this universe, and how powerful we really are. And all that, without an ounce of GUILT, like our religions try to tell us is mandatory.

Dont think that Dooley is mocking God or religion. He embraces God, and is very respectful in his speaking on the subject for those of you who are still in the clutches of needing to be guilty and punished, and waiting to see if it’s God’s will to give you things you want, without striking you down to humble you at the same time…… (sorry, I’m a recovered Southern Baptist!)

Dooley says that he believes we are all a PART of God, but that he believes that there is definately Someone bigger than the rest of us. In fact, he see’s the entire universe as being part and parcel of God……. Listen to the tapes and you’ll see how and why.

I’m thinking of giving all my tons of self-help books to the library (they never helped me because there was so much WORK to have to do: assignments, constant meditation, practice, reinforcement) I was inspired by them, but eventually gave up because I had other things to worry about like work and life! In fact, Dooley teaches the same things as many of those other writers out there….it’s just that he points out in such a monumental way that you dont need to jump hoops to create power, and self-love, and “enlightenment”, and success in your life. You only need recognize that you’ve already got all those things and are the master of them AND DESERVE THEM AS A TOTALLY LOVED AND ENTITLED FAMILY-MEMBER OF THIS UNIVERSE.

With Dooley’s tapes, you just listen and IT’S DONE……..

These tapes are SO beautiful, and powerful, and freeing. There is a new set of CD’s out too, that I will get after I finish these.

Thoughts Really Do Become Things
Thoughts Become Things: This is the message of “Infinite Possibilities”, and is it ever a powerful message! After 7 years of reading and listening to dozens of inspirational books and tapes, I found this amazing collection. From the very first recording, I knew that I was finally on to something wonderful.

These CD’s didn’t try to improve me or fix me. Instead, they opened my eyes to all the opportunities I wasn’t aware of, and reminded me of the power I already had - the power to manifest my dreams.

After six months of listening and absorbing this message, I made some radical changes in my life that I wanted to make for years. I bought a house in a state I’ve always wanted to live in, and prepared to move, despite the fact I didn’t have a job there. Then I met a wonderful man and we got married and moved into that dream house together. A few months later, I found a terrific, fulfilling job.

Now, two short years after I first heard that “Thoughts Become Things”, I am living the life I’ve always wanted to live. I never would have believed I could make these positive changes if it hadn’t been for the inspirational message I heard in “Infinite Possibilities.”

Wonderful Investment - GET IT!
I am soooo glad that I finally invested in this 12CD set! I wanted it for a long time but was hesitant because it cost a little more. Now I feel that Amazon’s price is a STEAL. There are several things I found to be unique and valuable about this tape set. One is that Mike Dooley explains the REASONS behind many metaphysical prosperity principles in clear, everyday language which occasionally includes current slang words! Also, his delivery of the material is upbeat yet somehow calming. He demonstrates a deep awareness of the diversity of his audience by using terms that are recognizable across cultures. I like the idea that each CD focuses on a different subject so I can choose my focus. Every single CD is quality without fluff. Overall you get the feeling that Mike Dooley is a real-life, reluctant guru who believes in real world results. This is a GREAT value when you consider that most motivational CDs are $16 each!

Review
“Infinite Possibilities is the perfect book at the perfect time. It is full of wisdom, answers, and guidance — a unique combination that is guaranteed to help anyone during times of change and transition. I loved it.” — Ariane de Bonvoisin, bestselling author of The First 30 Days

“Having been a fan of the ‘big boys’ — Anthony Robbins, Wayne Dyer, Earl Nightingale, et al. — I came away with the realization that Dooley is the most literate and professorial of them all.” — Roger Yale, Los Angeles Entertainment Today

“I am so excited about this book! Mike Dooley has given every human soul a great and wonderful gift. He shows us in the clearest terms yet just how to produce what God has always intended for us: a life of joy unbounded!” — Neale Donald Walsch, author of When Everything Changes, Change Everything and Conversations with God

“This book is your ticket to living. After experiencing Infinite Possibilities, you will never see life from the same perspective.” — James Van Praagh, author of Unfinished Business

From the Inside Flap
We live in a Universe that adores us, a Universe with inviolate principles that anyone can harness without limitations or regard to their past, and one in which dream manifestation is inevitable when we understand the true nature of our reality and our divine heritage.

About the Author
An international tax accountant turned entrepreneur turned writer for “the

Universe,” and now one of the teachers for the best-selling DVD and book The

Secret, Mike Dooley has found his calling. Mike lives in Orlando,

Florida, where he runs TUT’s Adventurer’s Club™ for the adventure of

life. He also travels internationally, speaking to thousands on life, dreams,

and happiness. Visit www.tut.com to sign up for new, daily Notes from the

Universe and join the club!

Survivor in Death Product: Survivor in Death Sale-Price Too Low To Display!! List Price: —- Amazon Price: Price Too Low To Display! Click Here To See Amazon Sale Price Add to cart to see low price@ Availability: In Stock Usually ships in 24 Hours Free Shipping Available

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The newest in the number-one New York Times-bestselling In Death series featuring Lieutenant Eve Dallas and Roarke. Nora Roberts writing as J. D. Robb returns to the New York City of 2059-where Dallas will struggle to solve the murder of a seemingly ordinary family and to protect one small, terrified survivor.

The members of the Swisher family were murdered in their beds with brutal, military precision. The state-of-the-art security was breached, and the killers used night-vision equipment to find their way through the cozy, middle-class house. Clearly, Dallas is dealing with pros. It seems the only mistake they made was to overlook the nine-year-old girl cowering in the darkened kitchen.

Now Nixie Swisher is an orphan-and the sole eyewitness to a seemingly inexplicable crime. Kids are not Dallas’s strong suit. But Nixie needs a safe place to stay, and Dallas needs to solve this case. With her partner, Peabody, back on the job-and her husband, Roarke, providing the kind of help that only he can give-Lieutenant Eve Dallas is running after shadows, and dead-set on finding out who’s behind them.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #2375 in eBooks
• Published on: 2006-09-01
• Released on: 2006-09-01
• Format: Kindle Book
• Number of items: 1

Not up to standard
Like many readers, I eagerly await the arrival of a new Dallas/Roarke story. Survivor in Death was no exception. At just under 300 pages a shorter work and one I have to say that I was overall disappointed with.

To begin, and this may be a small point, but the language felt different. There were slang terms used that are more common today, ‘phat’ being an example, that I felt were a jarring note. The language just felt more contemporary and less in keeping with Ms. Robb’s futuristic setting. Also, the continued references to Nixie and other witnesses as ‘wits’ (something I don’t remember from previous stories) tended to strike me as off.

Like other reviewers, I feel that the antagonists were not fleshed out all, they remained only very shallow and shadowy presences. The motive for the murders seemed pretty weak without in the absence of character development. Additionally, I think there was too much of an effort to tie past storylines or characters from past books into this one, as in the supposed links of the evildoers to Casasandra, the Doomsday group. Why didn’t she just throw in the Purity group while she was at it?

As for other continuing characters, yes Feeney, Peabody, McNab, Baxter, et al. were there, but it seems that even they were given short shrift. Yes, Peabody is still recovering from injuries received in Visions in Death, but even so, I felt that none of the regular characters have advanced any in our knowledge of them or grown as characters or people. Only 1 appearance by Mavis, good heavens, what is the series coming to?

On the whole, this book felt more to me as a rent-payer, and not up to Ms. Robb’s usual high standards. I did laugh a number of times and felt quite sympathetic toward Nixie and the book was an enjoyable read, but I couldn’t help but feel that there was something missing, some spark that would have made the story more vital. Perhaps it was due to the shorter length, as noted before this story was under 300 pages where her previous works tend to be 330 to 350 pages.

Maturing themes
Before I read this book, I read the reviews here on Amazon and was thoroughly confused about what to expect. Some saw it as a complex police procedural with maturing relationships and a lessening of the explicit rehash of Eve’s & Roarke’s traumatic childhoods. Others thought the details of the crimesolving were neglected and cast Eve as increasingly and somewhat randomly witchy.

Well, I’m going to vote with the former group:

* Eve and Roarke retain their passion, yet are depicted with an increasing amount of trust and a decreasing need for conflict which often was simply a painful stage set for a lusty truce. The characters are shown giving each other a growing amount of credit and respect; still, acerbic and affectionately humorous debates abound.

* Plot and police work were good enough for me. I mostly read murder mysteries, when I’m not reading technical manuals, but I’m not in law enforcement, so I’m a connoisseur without having insider knowledge. The books wouldn’t work without some semblance of police methodology, but really, we all read these for the characters, and especially for the witty dialogue between and among these interesting characters, don’t we?

* Contrary to the comments of some, Eve actually seemed more mellow in Survivor, as did Roarke, both without losing their edge. For those who find Eve’s conversations mean, cold, etc., I recommend listening to the conversation between good friends who are also smart, articulate, and in the habit of entertaining themselves and others with verbal play. Yes, she seems like a serious witch to Summerset, who, in return, chides her annoyingly. Their relationship is a bit of a caricature (for *our* entertainment) and that’s how *they* play. In this book, as in previous ones, they also make allowances and back off when someone they share is in need.

*Peabody and McNab continue to emerge as alternative and complementary versions of Eve and Roarke. Looking forward to seeing how that develops; Peabody is very much her own person and McNab is an entertaining foil.

*Finally, as a devoted mother of 2, former teacher and, on the whole, person who appreciates many of the fine reasons for reproducing and the excellent qualities of individual children - no, most definitely, Eve and Roarke do not need to be awarded offspring. As in real life, something would most definitely have to give. In real life, that can be positive, or at least not negative. But hey, this is entertainment. I don’t need my heros and entertainers to reflect my own personal self. We *love* Eve and Roarke expressly because they are *not* like us, no? Let’s not beat up the author for refusing to morph them into Middle America.

*Oh, and by the way, I found Eve’s conversations with the surviving child constructive and honest, unlike some who read this good story.

A Great Addition to The Series, but Eve is a Bit Unlikeable
The first thing that’s important to know about this book is that it is best read as part of the on-going “In Death” series. If you do choose to read it out of order, you’ll likely not enjoy it very much.

If, on the other hand, you’re someone who has read all the other books in the series, I think you’ll enjoy Survivor. It’s definitely one of the more intense and emotional installments, although not as good as Divided in Death or Portrait in Death.

The case is riveting from the start, but as in all the other books, the murder mystery pales in comparison to the emotional interaction between Eve and Roarke. This particular mystery starts very strong, but by the end, it’s a bit of a mess and you’ll probably be scratching your head in confusion. The first chapter hooks the reader, though, and you might find yourself in tears when you read about little Nixie’s plight.

The one thing preventing me from giving this book 5 stars is the characterization of Eve. Now, I do think Eve reacts in-character to Nixie: she’s brash, emotionally distant, and difficult. She also feels that she could best serve the child by finding out who killed her parents. I didn’t expect or want Eve to be cuddly with Nixie or cooing over her. That wouldn’t have been the Eve I know. But sometimes I think Roberts goes a bit too far with Eve’s grouchy, foul moods. In several places in this novel, Eve is downright unlikeable, even cruel. She’s obnoxious with Summerset in one scene where he humbles himself enough to apologize and even as Nixie clearly grows to love Eve, Eve can only express her fondness by noting that Nixie did a “dumbass” thing in risking her life.

Roberts repeatedly balances Eve’s rough edges with reminders of her terrible childhood. As awful as that childhood was, I feel like the death of Nixie’s parents was not the type of crime that would affect Eve any differently than it did the other characters. Roarke, Peabody, and Summerset were also deeply upset, and Roarke and Summerset in particular have experienced things in their own pasts that made them particularly pained by what occured. And yet Eve is the only one whose harsh behavior is excused because of what she went through as a child. I want Eve to be strong, and I like that she’s not a typical heroine, but this book felt like a big step back in terms of Eve’s growth. Her coldness to Nixie was ultimately as unbelievable as extreme warmth and fuzziness would have been. Roarke needed to confront her, and let her know that her work is important and vital, but sometimes she needs to give people like Nixie her time, not just her dedication as a cop.

The book has some great scenes, including Roarke remembering his past while spending time with Nixie, and Summerset caring for the child. In fact, I fell more in love with Roarke than ever, which made it even more frustrating that Eve was so irritating. There are also two wonderful love scenes, including one involving a flower that heightens sensation, and a long-awaited (at least by this reader) discussion between Eve and Roarke about the possibility of starting a family.

But overall, the end never fulfilled the emotional promise of the initial chapters.

Math SAT 800: How To Master the Toughest Problems Description:

Math SAT 800: How to Master the Toughest Problems contains 425 math SAT problems suited for students who have already taken the SAT or PSAT (or at least a practice SAT test). This book is most appropriate for students who scored 550 or above out of a possible score of 800 on the math portion of the SAT. The chapters in this book will provide ample opportunity to practice only the most difficult problems found on the SAT, rated a 4 or a 5 out of 5 on the Education Testing Service scale of difficulty. The goal of this book is to maximize your score by zeroing in on the most difficult problems that appear on the math section of the SAT exam. This book differs from other SAT books in that it doesn’t spend time on material that high achieving math students are already familiar with. Therefore, this book provides the most efficient way for advanced students to study for the math SAT.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #52468 in Books
• Published on: 2008-07-08
• Released on: 2008-07-08
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 300 pages

Customer Reviews:

The best SAT math prep book for those who aim at 700 or highter
As a math tutor, I have had students whose SAT math target scores range from 600 to 800. A friend recommended this book to me about 3 weeks ago and I decided to do an experiment right away.

First I used the diagnostic test at the very beginning of this book to test my students and divided them into several groups, then chose different combinations of math topics from this book for those different groups. The examples and detailed explanations under each topic are very well written and organized. The students who were already at the 650-level responded really well–most of them are at the 700-level right now after just 2 weeks of reading and practicing. Several students who started at about 550 also pressed me again and again for harder problems from this book.

Everybody wants a little bit challenge from time to time!

Fantastic book!
As a high school teacher of a rigorous college preparatory course, I am always looking for the latest, best, and highest quality SAT prep materials available. I have read and used all the other books out there from all the different companies, and in my opinion, this one is extremely user-friendly (well-organized and clear explanations), relevant (covers the problems students need to know), and overall, a great tool for high-achieving students. It is a great value for what you get. I am excited to use it in the classroom and highly recommend it.

Best Math SAT book on the market
This is a clear, concise, and well-written book that will help students master the most challenging Math SAT problems. The book contains numerous sample problems in all of the topical areas that the Math SAT tests, and provides a detailed, comprehensive, and easy to understand set of explanations. I would highly recommend this book for any student attempting to raise his or her math score - it is a terrific value.

The Dark Tide Adrien English Mysteries 5 Description:

Series: Adrien English Mysteries; Previous Book: Death of a Pirate King
Genre: LGBT Romantic Suspense

As if recovering from heart surgery beneath the gaze of his over-protective family wasn’t exasperating enough, someone keeps trying to break into Adrien English’s bookstore. What is this determined midnight intruder searching for?

When a half-century old skeleton tumbles out of the wall in the midst of the renovation of Cloak and Dagger Bookstore renovation, Adrien turns to hot and handsome ex-lover Jake Riordan — now out-of-the closet and working as a private detective.

Jake is only too happy to have reason to stay in close contact with Adrien, but there are more surprises in Adrien’s past than either one of them expects — and one of them may prove hazardous to Jake’s own heart.

Publisher’s Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #19436 in eBooks
• Published on: 2009-12-22
• Format: Kindle Book

Customer Reviews:

The Dark Tide
To date, Josh Lanyon’s magnum opus would be his Adrien English series, and The Dark Tide only feeds to the belief. Josh has stated that this will be the last book of the series, but far from being Adrien and Jake’s swan song, he has assured these much beloved characters will make appearances in short stories and anthologies. We can only hope because I miss them already.

Not long out of the hospital, Adrien returns home - his home - to continue his convalescence. He has a life to sort out, after all. Jake has stepped out of his closet, has declared his interest, if only to be friends with Adrien, and Adrien is not sure what he wants now. Is it surprising that when the shop gets broken into on his first night back, the first person he thinks of, the one he calls is Jake? Jake comes running and is again put into the White Knight role and Adrien likes it.

What Adrien doesn’t like is how worn and exhausted his body is, how his family fusses, and how the contractor doing the remodeling doesn’t seem too serious about finishing the work he’s been hired to do. When the skeleton is discovered under the floorboards of the old hotel, the mystery gives Adrien something to focus on and an excuse to hire Jake to continue to see him on a regular basis.

The story is slightly different in tone from the previous stories. Adrien has changed and appears more cautious, at least where his heart is concerned. Josh wraps up any lingering doubts about Adrien’s past loves, about “That Boy,” about Natalie’s useless boyfriend and he adds a warm perspective to Lisa’s personality, showing her to be more than just an overprotective mother. Adrien has grown since `Fatal Shadows,’ showing a strength not seen before, but also he is less self-centered. He gives thought to how it must be to be the other people in his life and what drives them to do and say the things they do.

If Adrien has changed, so has Jake. While he has not given up his reticent ways, he is more open and even more direct on what he wants. Jake appears more patient and supportive, more giving than he has in all previous books combined. For those readers who ever doubted him, Jake redeems himself.

Adrien’s new insightfulness serves him well in solving the mystery. He uses it to combine what the principal interests have said and like a jigsaw puzzle, puts the pieces together to come up with surprising results. It is interesting here in how Jake was able to reach the same conclusion using a completely different method. The title itself is a metaphor, one the book explains if you catch it. Its philosophy can change the way you perceive others, past and present.

Josh Lanyon fans will love this book, of course. Hopefully, once you read the series and this book, if you’re not already a fan, you will be.

Adieu, Adrien and Jake, until we read again.

excellent read
Josh Lanyon really seems to out do himself with this sequel. There is always the fear that the sequels won’t be as good as the original story but in The Dark Tide Lanyon continues to develop his characters and has well researched and engaging plot lines. Basically, I’m in love with Adrien English.

Becoming a U.S. Citizen: A Guide to the Law, Exam And Interview Description:

Seeking citizenship? Here’s everything you need to know!The path from green card to U.S. citizenship can be a long and winding one and bureaucratic hassles are inevitable. But with Becoming a U.S. Citizen, you can shave months or years off the time it takes to become a citizen. Find out how to:

• Amazon Sales Rank: #74936 in eBooks
• Published on: 2008-09-22
• Released on: 2008-09-22
• Format: Kindle Book
• Number of items: 1

Customer Reviews:

Best book if you have to prepare on your own
Before applying for citizenship, I bought three books from Amazon. I found this one by far the most comprehensive. The author, an immigration lawyer, covers every aspect of the procedure, including helpful sample letters, tips, exam preparation strategy, and when to consult a lawyer. A tip: get the latest edition, because the test has changed recently. My only criticism would be that someone with limited English might have trouble understanding some of it. Other guides focus more on the English and civics test, though this book provides all you need to know, presented in orderly fashion.

Becoming a U.S. Citizen: A Guide to the Law, Exam & Interview
Good book with much useful and clear information. Good buy. BUT, if you go to an adult education center in your neighborhood and sign up for a citizenship class you can buy a similar book for $10, AND get personalized help filling out the forms AND the latest information on the whole process.

very useful
the book is very useful and narrated the process in such detail that leaves no doubts in respect of such topic as becoming a US citizen.By carefully reading the book one can directly file his application for naturalisation without approachingan attorney and confidently appear and succeed in the interview.
i recommend it for every prospective applicants

Review
“A useful guide for individuals seeking to become naturalized citizens of the U.S. I highly recommend it.” — Carl Shusterman, former INS Naturalization attorney, author of Shusterman’s Immigration Update

“Covers topics that most other guides don’t, helping you to avoid troublespots.” — ForeignerInAmerica.com

Review
“Covers topics that most other guides don’t, helping you to avoid troublespots.”

Review
“A useful guide for individuals seeking to become naturalized citizens of the U.S. I highly recommend it.”