Average customer rating:
- Almost inspiring
- Where's my book.
- On My Own: The Art of Being a Woman Alone
- The power of flying solo
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On My Own: The Art of Being a Woman Alone
Florence Falk
Manufacturer: Harmony
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
 Interpersonal Relations | Relationships | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
Love & Romance | Relationships | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
Personal Transformation | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
General | Psychology & Counseling | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
Gender | By Topic | Psychology & Counseling | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
General | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
Women | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
General | Women's Studies | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1400098106
Release Date: 2007-03-20 |
Book Description
At some point over the course of the average American woman’s life, she will find herself alone, whether she is divorced, widowed, single, or in a loveless, isolating relationship. And when that time comes, it is likely that she will be at a loss as to how to handle it. As a society, we have an unspoken but omnipresent belief that a woman alone is an outcast, inherently flawed in some way. In this invigorating, supportive book, psychotherapist Florence Falk aims to take the fear, doubt, confusion, and helplessness out of being a woman alone. Falk invites all women to find their own paths toward an authentic selfhood, to discover the pleasures and riches of solitude, and to reconnect with others through a newfound sense of self-confidence.
Like so many women before her, Florence Falk found herself divorced, alone, and unsure of herself. Soon she realized that by embracing her solitude for what it was—a potentially enriching and life-altering experience—she could turn what once would have felt like “loneliness” into a far more positive and empowered “aloneness.” Falk notes that each of us has two opposing drives: one causes us to yearn to make close connections with others, and the other pulls us back into ourselves, into the need for selfhood and certainty that can only be shaped through solitude. In order to be whole, she says, we must heed both of those impulses. But in our modern culture, the former is stressed while the latter is neglected, even vilified. On My Own boldly shifts that paradigm.
With inspiring, intimate stories of women from all backgrounds, Falk illuminates the essential role that being alone plays in women’s lives. Whether she is in a stable relationship or on her own, every woman must learn to be by herself; for if she can be fully free, unfettered by society’s stigmas about being alone, life and all its possibilities will open up for her. And as Falk demonstrates, once a woman has discovered the richness of solitude, she is not likely to give it up so easily.
Customer Reviews:
Almost inspiring.......2007-08-24
The Art of Being a Woman Alone - now there's a subject which needed to be addressed. Women today (and for most of recorded history) have been culturally expected - even driven - to sacrifice themselves for others. More recently, ideals emerged which allowed women to seek their own interests and careers, and in todays world, most women know instinctively that they HAVE to be able to support themselves (and children if they have them) as men are no longer required to support them.
This, understandably, creates pressure.
In our modern drive to have everything, women have lost their Self. By losing one's Self, according to Falk, a person loses the ability to stand alone, to be self-sufficient, to enjoy solitude without being lonely and bereft. In addition, when one's Self is damaged or missing, there is nothing protecting you from psychic damage from friends, lovers, and the world in general.
In many ways, our culture resists the import of a woman who is able to stand alone. If you are valuing your own self, you are selfish - a horrible accusation to make of any girl or mother. If you cultivate your own interests, or enjoy your own company, you are self-absorbed - again, a negative. Falk wants us to take joy in selfishness, as we re-imagine ourselves and make peace with who we truly are. She wishes that more women would take time to be self-absorbed, to glory in the creative, WHOLE person who has been submerged for so long by our society, our relationships, and abuse.
Which brings me to the "almost inspiring." Falk finds it necessary to trace in microscopic detail the failed relationships, parental and peer abuse, and overarching societal pressure which causes modern women to lose their Self. This is an amazing downer in a book intended to inspire. In those pages (which are a majority of the book) there is a passivity - a helplessness in the face of a powerful and malevolent grinding cultural poverty. Comparing this to her stirring call for Self-awareness, I found it difficult when she failed to transfer this individual awareness into culture at large.
One example speaks of a girl, gifted and pretty, from an "academic" hippie family, and the teasing and social abuse she suffered at middle and high school. The girl, now a middle-aged woman, is only now dealing with this pain. Nowhere is it suggested that if the girl had a Self-aware mentor, she could have learned to stand ALONE and to rise above the taunts of her peers. Repeatedly, women and girls in her examples are left with gaping psychic wounds which are bemoaned as evil and spirit-breaking, but with no counter-examples to show HOW, if one is taught to grow into her Self from the start, those wounds could be minimized or avoided.
Much of this comes from the author's own experiences, as late in life she rediscovered herself and fought free of years of living for others. I do applaud women who, at any age, realize that no matter what or who is in your life, a healthy person's focus must be on themselves FIRST. However, I think that a celebration of women's rights to be whole people in themselves should try to show how to achieve that from the start, rather than passively accepting the damage until some midlife "eureka" is reached.
In spite of this, this book is stirring and powerful, and begs for women to accept that we CAN be alone and powerful, we CAN be at peace with our true Selves, and we CAN recover from childhood trauma and the pressures of life. This is an important message for everyone.
Where's my book. .......2007-07-07
I'd love to write a review and I'd love to have the book, but apparently it was sent to my old address, wasn't forwarded, and was sent back. I'd love it if you'd reship it to me at my new address: Barb Haynes, 108 Panico Trail, Murphy, NC 28907. Thanks
On My Own: The Art of Being a Woman Alone.......2007-05-14
This book was in great shape and was very inspirational. I have recommended it to several women of my age group.
The power of flying solo.......2007-04-17
On My Own is a revolutionary book. Florence Falk offers deep insight about the social and cultural frames that encourage women to see being alone as a "problem". Beautifully written, it traces, with true sensitivity, the many complex and often conflicting forces that 'contribute' to a woman's 'aloneness'. She boldly encourage us to shatter the paradigm, and reframes solitude as a positive state, a place of power, to be celebrated and explored with enthusiasm.
Around this country, millions of women, single or deeply lonely in their relationships, wrestle with questions about the role and place of partnership in their lives. This remarkable book offers us a way to see our aloneness in a new way....helping us to celebrate our solitude as a state of liberation.
It's hard to imagine a woman whose life would not be touched by reading this book. For many women, Falk's message will come as a key, unlocking a door they may never have known was even there.... and lives will change, forever. For some, perhaps, it will be revolutionary, and the change will come with great force. For others, it may be like a small stone, dropped into water, the rings rippling out gently, wider and wider... but either way, I am convinced, lives will transform. Give this book to a woman you know who is ready for freedom!
Amazon.com
E. Lynne Harris's A Love of My Own is the story of Zola Norwood, the attractive, ambitious editor-in-chief of Bling, Bling, a hot new magazine for young and hip African Americans. Having achieved success in her professional life, Zola embarks on a quest for true love. She makes clean breaks from her clandestine affairs with Davis McClinton, Bling, Bling's powerful owner, and Jabar, the seemingly simple yet undeniably sexy personal trainer at her club. Adding to the intrigue is Raymond Tyler Jr., whose relationship with his longtime partner, Trent, has just ended badly. In a search for refuge and rebirth, Raymond moves to New York and begins work as the CEO of Bling, Bling. As Zora and Raymond chart their own courses to love and personal fulfillment, Harris grapples with familiar themes like love, deception, family, and power. In a tale woven together by up-to-the-minute current events (the characters watch Denzel Washington and Halle Berry take home awards on Oscar night; Zora awakes to the news of pop star Aaliyah's tragic death), E. Lynne Harris has yet again taken his formula for success and created another winner. --Gisele Toueg
Book Description
Friendship. Love. Family.
Bestselling author E. Lynn Harris is back with another new tale that embraces his signature themes.
Zola Denise Norwood is a young hot editor in chief of Bling Bling, (the magazine “for people who want everything!) who’s at the top of her game, ruling the roost in business as well as the bedroom. Having discovered “the power of three” (not tying herself down to just one guy) Zola surrounds herself with a coterie of men : her best male friend, the gay Hayden; her Monday night man, Jabar, and enjoys stolen nights with married Bling Bling owner and media mogul Davis Vincent McClinton, a man who chases power at all costs…Still, Zola dreams of finding true love.
Raymond Tyler, Jr., a favorite and classic Harris character has suffered a personal loss and picks up and moves to New York to re-build his life. As CEO of Bling Bling,Raymond struggles to enjoy his newfound success in business as he searches for love and meaning in his personal life. John Basil Henderson returns with a new lady in his life, and Raymond and Basil renew a friendship that is fraught with sexual tension. As Raymond examines his life and strains to move forward, tragedy strikes, and Raymond faces his biggest challenge ever.
As Zola and Raymond search for a love of their own, several characters from the past make cameo appearances and round out another E. Lynn Harris classic tale. A LOVE OF MY OWN is filled with all the marvelous ingredients the author’s fans the globe over have come to love. Sit back and get ready as E. Lynn Harris takes you on another satisfying and rip-roaring ride.
Download Description
Friendship. Love. Family. Bestselling author E. Lynn Harris is back with another new tale that embraces his signature themes.
Zola Denise Norwood is a young hot editor-in-chief of Bling Bling (the magazine "for people who want everything!"), who's at the top of her game, ruling the roost in business as well as the bedroom. Having discovered "the power of three" (not tying herself down to just one guy), Zola surrounds herself with a coterie of men: her best male friend, the gay Hayden; her Monday night man, Jabar; and married Bling Bling owner and media mogul Davis Vincent McClinton, a man who chases power at all costs... Still, Zola dreams of finding true love.
Raymond Tyler, Jr., a favorite and classic Harris character, has suffered a personal loss and picks up and moves to New York to re-build his life. As CEO of Bling Bling, Raymond struggles to enjoy his newfound success in business as he searches for love and meaning in his personal life. John Basil Henderson returns with a new lady in his life, and Raymond and Basil renew a friendship that is fraught with sexual tension. As Raymond examines his life and strains to move forward, tragedy strikes, and Raymond faces his biggest challenge ever.
As Zola and Raymond each search for a love of their own, several characters from the past make cameo appearances and round out another E. Lynn Harris classic tale. A Love of My Own is filled with all the marvelous ingredients the author's fans the globe over have come to love. Sit back and get ready as E. Lynn Harris takes you on another satisfying and rip-roaring ride.
"An entertaining confection.... True to form, Harris keeps the sex, scandal and drama churning."
PEOPLE
"E. Lynn Harris has done it again.... Filled with love, suspense, tragedy and quite a few surprises."
LOUISVILLE COURIER-JOURNAL
"A tangled web of love, lust deception and intrigue."
EBONY
"Fans... will be turning pages even faster than usual."
ROSIE
"Vintage Harris."
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
"A tangled web of love, lust, deception and intrigue."
EBONY
"Harris has a knack.... Romance... drama... suspense and... sexual and sensual fantasies."
DETROIT FREE PRESS
Customer Reviews:
THIS ONE WOULD MAKE A GREAT MOVIE!.......2007-02-18
Several years ago, I was visiting a cousin while taking leave/vacation back to the states from Europe. She happen to have an E. Lynn Harris book called "If This World Were Mine" on the table in the guest room I was staying in. I read it, thought it was a very good book and wanted to know more about this particular author. Mr. Harris has been writing for over the past 15 years, and for the life of me, I don't understand why has one of his books have not been made into a film?
In this particular story, he didn't put alot of emphasis on gay sex, DL brothers or sex in general like his previous books, but express the emotion of what the characters were going through, as far as the current events that were happening in America at the time, like the September 11 attacks.
That's why I feel this installment by Mr. Harris, would make a great motion picture. It has plenty of drama going on, funny dialog between the characters, intense confrontations, dark secrets and a shocking ending.
I know that homosexuality is a big taboo subject within the black community. I have a gay uncle and a lesbian cousin, who has educated me on hand about the subject, who they our as gay people in general.
I love them both equally and I strongly feel it is time for us as a culture to start educating ourselves (like starting with one of Mr. Harris novels), getting to know and accepting our gay brothers and sisters.
A love of my own.......2007-01-13
Excellent. E. Lynn Harris is a genius at what he does. This one speaks the universal language of Love no matter your sexual preference.
It was OK........2006-08-29
The story centers around Zola and Raymond. Two career people, both, in search of love. They both work at the same magazine company and somehow, someway they cross paths. E.Lynn uses his old characters of his past novels ( Yancey and and bi guy;can't remember his name ) to connect the characters in more than one way besides them knowing each other at work.
After reading this book, I felt nothing. I leanred minimal new things. I felt like I had read 300-some pages of just blah. Don't get me wrong, E.Lynn Harris is a nice writer but the story really dragged on. You could have skipped over whole chapters (as I did) and you would have still been able to understand what was happening. There needed to be another element of drama and surprise in the book to give it that extra flair.
Basil is finally on track........2006-06-07
this book just out did the rest. Basil finally took that step that he was so scared to make. Harris is an incredible writer. Can't wait till the next one.
a love of my own.......2006-04-28
i'm am writting this review to tell you that this book is a really excited book. its fun to read and it is very interested.it makes you don't want to put the book down because you want to know whats going to happen next.my favorite part of the book is when she tells you how you will meet you love and how you will meet him.thats it for now because i cant spoil it by telling you the ending.
Product Description
A LOVE OF MY OWN takes on the universal issue of class and how changes in economic status among family and friends can often disrupt, confuse, and wound. But love, a signature Harris theme, abounds in this novel. As a band of close-knit characters (old and new) navigates life's challenges and tries to find their place in the world, each person goes on a journey of the heart in search of the one thing everyone wants: a love of their own. E. Lynn Harris is a former IBM computer sales executive and a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. He is the author of seven previous novels.
Average customer rating:
- If only she could play
- Fantastic Book to read!
- fun & interesting read.could NOT put down
- A fascinating story by the great guitarist, Liona Boyd.
- An amazing and entertaining story about Liona Boyd's life
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In My Own Key: My Life in Love and Music
Liona Boyd
Manufacturer: Stoddart
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Strings | Instruments & Performers | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
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General | Composers & Musicians | Arts & Literature | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
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The Spanish Album
ASIN: 0773731210 |
Book Description
"Exotic venues, sold-out concerts, and the companionship of the world's most powerful people have given Liona Boyd a lifestyle few will ever experience.
The internationally acclaimed classical guitarist has crossed numerous boundries, both musically and romantically. Whether working with such classical greats as Alexandre Lagoya or with such folk legends as Gordon Lightfoot she has always made music - and lived her life - in her own key.
In this colorful memoir she serves up a rich and fascinating mix: childhood with her progressive parents in England, Canada and Mexico; intense and exacting music studies in Toronto and Europe; down-and-out years in London and Paris; drug experimentation in a Mexican artists colony; and whirlwind trips around the globe to eminent concert stages.
And who can forget her friendship with Canada's prime minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau? Here, for the first time, Liona tells the full story behind that relationship.
It all makes for a rousing, fiesty, passionate tale, as compelling and entrancing as the music of her Ramirez guitar." Don Bastian, Stoddart Publishing
Customer Reviews:
If only she could play.......2006-01-19
It is a shame when someone achieves fame for all the wrong reasons. Ms. Boyd is, frankly, not a very good guitarist. Gushing, adoring amateurs mostly cannot tell the difference. Professionals take the "I'll never tell" stance. And the myth is born.
I gave the book 1 star because I don't like frauds. But, it's an interesting read. It's pretty clear where Liona did much of her "concertizing."
Fantastic Book to read!.......2000-06-28
This book is a wonderful account of one of the most talented musicians alive! I have been a huge fan of Liona's music for many years and this book gives an in depth look into what this Classical Guitarist is really all about. She has been through so much growing up and it is great to know that she has met her dreams and continues to flourish in her field. I hope Liona will continue to write books, as this is more proof of what a talented lady she really is. The writing is as imaginative and inspiring as her music. Even if you're not a fan of her music or do not know her music, that should not keep you from reading this book. I can't wait for more!
fun & interesting read.could NOT put down.......2000-05-14
Have been a great fan of Ms boyds music for years.Loved the book.It is insight into the person who has given me much pleasure with her wonderful music. More then anything,it was a great read.Interesting,& great fun.What a terrific movie it would make
A fascinating story by the great guitarist, Liona Boyd........2000-05-04
My first interest in classical guitar followed our daughter's learning the ukulele, then the guitar at elementary school. When the local community center offered group guitar lessons by a talented local musician, I enrolled. As time went on we attended numerous classical guitar concerts by many well known guitarists. We also saw Liona Boyd on PBS in the early 1980's. Since that time, we have seen Liona perform many concerts, and had our albums signed by her. Liona's sensitive tonal interpretation of many popular guitar pieces and her unique music writing abilities place her eminently among her peers.
Liona's autobiography weaves a fascinating and wonderful history of her upbringing, adventures, and dedication to the mastery of her musical instrument, the classical guitar. Liona's book tells of her many interesting experiences, stories, adventures and travelogs as a solo female artist. We recommend this book about North America's foremost classical guitarist without reservation. The book is well written and includes many beautiful photographs of Liona, her family, and friends. We are proud to have it on our bookshelf. We look forward to future publications by Liona Boyd.
An amazing and entertaining story about Liona Boyd's life.......2000-01-15
A fan of classical music and guitar in particular, I had to have this book, of course. But could I imagine how much fun it would be to read? I had trouble putting it down at night and finished it in two days! What a wonderful person she is. Everybody who loves music should read this book, as it is full of interesting anecdotes and stories behind the scenes in the guitar world. The print quality of the colorful pictures is excellent. A great value.
Customer Reviews:
Great story, just not quite finished.......2002-02-09
Wonderful reading! Unfortunately, Mrs. Wiggins passed away before this edition was published. She must have intended to write more about Martha & Abram and the others, judging from the seemingly unfinished plots at the end of the 4th book.
Wonderful Stories.......2000-07-18
Veralee Wiggins does a wonderful job of telling a story about the trials that a wagon train goes through on its journey to the Northwest. Each story brings the reader a closer look into the lives of well developed characters. Wiggins' writing brings the reader into the stories and inspires and encourages strong faith.
Customer Reviews:
Time Travel Romance Via A Magic Ring.......2002-07-25
This is another time travel novel that was well done, but not quite as good as Autumnal Lord or the Storm books. It is about a young woman living in present day Minnesota who is transported back to 1811 Regency England as a Gypsy ancestor. A magic ring is responsible for this feat, as she casually wishes to meet Her Own True Love. The ring has a wicked sense of humor and an agenda of its own that makes it endearing. The first hundred pages were slow paced, until a plot twist kept the pages turning! The ending was excellent, tying up loose ends in an amusing and creative manner. The book is definitely worth reading, though not her very best.
No, He's MY True Love!.......2001-03-12
This was the first Susan Sizemore romance I had read, and it immediately became one of my favorites ever. What I love best about Susans writing is the snappy wit she gives her leading ladies, no lilting lily here. In this story we have a young woman not being careful what she wishes for, literally, and finding herself plunged into the middle of an early 19th century intrigue involving a pre-James bond 007 and herself as his unwilling, post adolescent, gypsie-theif side kick. But who ends up outwitting whom as these two struggle against criminals, in-laws, politicians and...gosh, could it be...love? Read on as this 'love/hate' fire really gets burning. You'll want to slap him and kiss him yourself! A fantasy so close to ones I've had that I thought I'd written it! With just a touch of magic, Renaissance and Rock 'n' Roll, this story took me right where I wanted to go.
Book Description
Step inside the hurricaneof Diminishing Love!
Diminishing Love is a story of a man that ?nds what he thinks is true love. It's just like they say. If it's too good to be true then it probably is. This story takes you through many different emotions as the truth is ?nally unveiled after Lee, one of the main characters, has exhausted all of his efforts trying to hold everything together. Not only does Lee ?nd himself trapped in a web of deception, he is also torn between morality and sanity. Find out what the main character experiences as Leandus Poe, the author, takes you on a journey through passion, love, sex, triumph, family, and career.
Customer Reviews:
Finally a man tells the truth!!!.......2007-08-21
Im from St louis,Mo I brought the book i read it the same day i recieved it! I thought the book was amazing because it told it all and it wasn't one sided! Mr. Poe you told the things you did the good and the bad! I think that anyone who is considering on being in a relationship or getting married should consider reading this book before making a decision that can change your life! I just think this book gives a heads up on relationships and on the signs to relationship going bad! People need to realize that when you commit that person becomes a part of your life and you have to adjust your life to make the other person feel a certain way verses you getting self together and getting where it is that you want to be in life than let someone enter your life! That book is about your life and some people everyday life that just cant seem to figure out where they go wrong! Its just proof that sometimes when your in a relationship people can either bring you down and distract you from accomplishing the goals you want to accomplish in life or they can be the push you need to better yourself! You help someone life get better and they made yours a living hell! That book has really help me alot with my life. Keep up the good work Im looking forward to what you have coming up next! You are an amazing writer and i think that you are a very strong man! It takes a lot for a man to have a life experience like that and write a book about it! That takes alot of courage and hard work! Thanks for letting me finally hear a story from a man who experience things that we as women talk about all the time! GREAT BOOK!!!!!!!!
Book Description
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Johanna Lindsey comes a love story as passionate, tumultuous, and colorful as the old American West.
In 1870s Texas, an unforgettable drama unfolds in the lives of rival twin sisters and the cowboy they both want to call their own.
Amanda and Marian Laton are identical twins but they are as different as night and day. Amanda is beautiful but nasty, and Marian is nice but plain -- purposely so to avoid provoking her spiteful twin's jealousy. When their wealthy father suddenly dies, the two gently reared New England heiresses are sent to live with their aunt on a sprawling Texas ranch. There the twins meet Chad Kinkaid, the cowboy son of a neighboring rancher. Marian is fascinated by Chad's rugged good looks and his sheer masculinity, but she knows that like every other man she and her twin have met, he will pursue Amanda, not her. Chad is indeed beguiled by Amanda's beauty, but soon he begins to see beyond Marian's carefully constructed dowdy façade. Unlike the tame gentlemen back East, after witnessing Marian's taste for adventure, her sense of humor and bravery in the face of danger, Chad finds himself wanting her. But how can he, a man who's just a cowboy without fancy airs or urbane charm, convince her she's the only woman for him?
In a story that surprises and delights, Johanna Lindsey skillfully charts the intoxicating course of first love, and all of love's attendant twists and turns, that ends with a spunky woman's coming into her own and finding a man she can call her own. With powerful emotions and sensuality, incomparable humor, and great insight into the ways of the human heart, Lindsey delivers one of her most compelling novels, which readers won't want to put down until the final page is turned.
Download Description
"From #1 New York Times bestselling author Johanna Lindsey comes a love story as passionate, tumultuous, and colorful as the old American West. In 1870s Texas, an unforgettable drama unfolds in the lives of rival twin sisters and the cowboy they both want to call their own. Amanda and Marian Laton are identical twins but they are as different as night and day. Amanda is beautiful but nasty, and Marian is nice but plain -- purposely so to avoid provoking her spiteful twin's jealousy. When their wealthy father suddenly dies, the two gently reared New England heiresses are sent to live with their aunt on a sprawling Texas ranch. There the twins meet Chad Kinkaid, the cowboy son of a neighboring rancher. Marian is fascinated by Chad's rugged good looks and his sheer masculinity, but she knows that like every other man she and her twin have met, he will pursue Amanda, not her. Chad is indeed beguiled by Amanda's beauty, but soon he begins to see beyond Marian's carefully constructed dowdy facade. Unlike the tame gentlemen back East, after witnessing Marian's taste for adventure, her sense of humor and bravery in the face of danger, Chad finds himself wanting her. But how can he, a man who's just a cowboy without fancy airs or urbane charm, convince her she's the only woman for him? In a story that surprises and delights, Johanna Lindsey skillfully charts the intoxicating course of first love, and all of love's attendant twists and turns, that ends with a spunky woman's coming into her own and finding a man she can call her own. With powerful emotions and sensuality, incomparable humor, and great insight into the ways of the human heart, Lindsey delivers one of her most compelling novels, which readers won't want to put down until the final page is turned. "
Customer Reviews:
A wonderful surprise!.......2007-07-20
This book taught me once again to never judge a book by its reviews. I almost didn't read this because the reviews were lukewarm at best, but I'm so glad I did anyway. This is a wonderful novel, different from some of the other JL books in that the resolution takes place well before the very end. I love the twin theme, and I especially love Marian's strength and passion. Her sacrifices for her selfish sister are unnecessary and frustrating, but at the same time very noble and somewhat understandable. Chad is strong and stubborn but tender and giving, and I love that he struggles with his feelings but chooses to follow his heart in the end. The extra twists and turns added depth and entertainment without muddying the plot. I would give this novel four stars if it weren't for the fact that Marian's stubbornness and naivete annoyed me slightly for a stretch of about a hundred pages. Believe me though, it was well worth it in the end and I'm glad I kept reading because the resolution was wonderful and very satisfying.
A good Romance!.......2007-04-23
I am not a regular Johanna Lindsey reader, I have only read her western books, so really I have no others to compare this one to, to say "this was not her best."
I really enjoyed the book and now have read it twice. The characters in this book were believable, I wanted to smack the s**t out of Amanda. I felt sorry for Marian needing to disguise her beauty because of her jealous, mean, spoiled, sister. Mishaps happen and Marian doesn't straighten it out and gets her heart broken.
The book has the romance, maybe not the best, but it is there, and there is a mystery.
Just wanted to add that there is a little surprise at the end of the book. And I was glad to see that Marian's sister had changed and they were getting along.
A Book to Call My Own...Perfection!.......2007-04-08
A Man to Call My Own is about Marion Laton and Chad Kinkaid, the embodiment of the perfect hero and heroine. This is a great western novel filled with non-stop entertainment, I just couldn't put it down! The misunderstandings and situations between the hero and heroine were realistic and believable. The humor was great and the characters were drawn out nicely. The secondary characters were great too, love 'em or hate 'em. Though it wasn't so much a romance, as it was just a regular novel. I usually like more romance than this book had, but it was still a pretty darn good book in my opinion!
I really don't understand the low rating, it might be different from the Malory books, but is still, in it's own right, a great book. Don't be put out at the rating and what people are saying about it, check it out for yourself and decide. It's not just a great love story, it's a great story in general...it left me breathless!
This is IMO Johanna L. worst book ever!!!.......2006-09-13
I love JL so this review was hard for me to write. This book like another reviewer said was so disorganized and not to mention so boring that I couldn't wait for the ending to come!
Marian our Heroine & Amanda are beautiful twins. Marian is the good twin and Amanda the evil twin (how original). Amanda loves attention is always trying to steal Marian's suitors and then dumps them horribly when she succeeds. In order for Marian to protect herself from Amanda taking her men and treating them horribly, she simply decides to give up and make herself look "ugly" but wearing plain clothing, big glasses and a tight bun (how lame) so they don't pay attention to her. *Shaking my head*.
Their father dies and they are forced to go live with his sister who they don't really know. She sends the Hero Chad to meet them halfway and bring them back to her ranch. Chad is immediately smitten by Amanda and makes excuses in the beginning for her nasty behavior. Meanwhile Marian likes Chad but in order to hide her feeling about him from Amanda, she acts like a witch towards him. Throughout the book they are some really dumb misunderstandings that make you want to roll your eyes.
The main characters Chad & Marian had potential but he was a little on the shallow and dumb side and she was too busy being "ugly" and "mean" to show her true personality - which was really nice and I would have preferred.
The story had potential but felt rushed. I found nothing redeemable about Amanda. She was a spoiled brat who IMO took up too many pages in the book! I don't know why JL tried to redeem her in the end after making her so selfish and annoying throughout the whole book!
"Home for the Holidays" was pretty bad but this book takes the cake!
For an excellent JL book, I highly suggest "Love Me Forver", "Silver Angel". All her other books are also pretty great!
dissapointing.......2006-08-19
This book was an ok read. the first 3/4 of the book was ok, but then the book just kept getting worse as I flipped the pages. It seems as though she didn't know how to end it and had a deadline, so she just put whatever down on paper. You don't really see when they fell in love and what propelled Amanda (the bad twin) to be so good all of a sudden. Things just don't start to add up. This book was not bad, but the ending was a dissapointment.
Book Description
Evan is smart.
He's funny.
He's attractive, intense, and athletic.
He's even a fairly decent dancer.
He's absolutely perfect! And he wants Jessica Wakefield.
So why, why, WHY doesn't she want him?
Customer Reviews:
Fifteenth Book in the SVHSY Series.......2003-03-22
In "On My Own," Jessica Wakefield pursues Evan Plummer in an attempt to break the [mold] her friends have of her--that she only dates "popular, preppy, superficial jocks." However, if she'd read Evan's "10 Things That Make a Girl My Type" list, she'd probably realize they're obviously not a good match. Not only that, but she's still not over Will Simmons, which makes for a few uncomfortable scenes. In my opinion, she should take Evan's advice and stay single for awhile, sort things out, which, by the title, I thought she'd be doing in this book. Next one then?
A plus to "On My Own" is that Ken Matthews is more in the spotlight, though not exactly on good terms. Apparently he's having problems with his dad, who has been avoiding him because of his demanding job and new girlfriend.
Then there's the question that's been lurking in the back of my mind for the past couple of books: Where's Jeremy? He and Ken are the few halfway decent guys in this series and deserve a little more recognition than what they're getting. Well, Angel too, especially since he seems to have fallen off the face of the earth as well. At least Andy Marsden (the comic relief and one of my favorite characters in this series) has considerable time spent on him, mainly dealing with his anxiety and confusion over Six Hansen, the perky sophomore he's asked out on a couple of dates. Good ending between these two, by the way.
Overall, this is a good addition to the SVHSY series. Jessica and Ken fans should like this one especially since there's more character development of each one.
On my own.......2002-03-02
In this book Jessica is finally dating Evan Plummer.But is it what she wants?She gets really confused when all her boyfriends show up at a sports awards night(Will,Jeremy,Evan)and she is confused over who she really likes.Evan gives her advice and Jessica decides to be single for a while.Personally I think she should've stuck with Jeremy instead of dumping him for slimeball Will.
Ken's dad has got a girlfriend and Ken doesn't like her especially when his father goes out on a date with her instead of coming to the sports award night.Ken's father is such a jerk and I'm suprised Ken hasn't hurt him yet.Also Conner's jealous because Elizabeth is not spending enough time with him.
This series is probably the best of all the Sweet Valley's and all the books are simple easy reads.They also have cool diary-like sections between chapters with letters,e-mail,characters personal thoughts,polls,stories and homework and college applications all done in a specific handwriting font for each character.These books are great if a tad on the melodramatic side and are easy enough to read so there's no excuse not to try one.The first one(being a Jessica fan)put me off but now I love them.
So go out and grab a copy and Happy Reading!!!!
NO WILL?.......2001-04-15
OK, I know that Will is a total pig. He let Jessica's life become trashed all for his crazy girlfriend who should be put in front of a firing squad. But I think that after all the hard work that Jessica put into getting Will, she should at least have been able to continue seeing him instead of grungy, hug-the-trees Evan. I think she deserves someone better than Evan, and even though Will is a jerk I think he and Jessica compliment each other perfectly as a couple..
IT's good.......2000-10-26
Well, Ken finds out his dad has a girlfriend. Who seems pretty cool to me. So he's dealing with his dad dating and stuff. Conner and liz are basically agruing the whole book because Liz has to work alot and Everytime they do see each other it's with other people and he wonts to be alone with her. Jess askes Evan out. They have an ok time. Jeremy ask Jess to an award show. She agrees as friends. Evan gets jealous and they agrue. Becasue he was going to ask her to there with him. They end up....
Weird..........2000-08-12
look i like this book Jess was my favorite character always! but she used to be able to get over everything and anyone and personally i would like to see jeffrey french come back. You remember him right? Well all the diehard fans do. He used to date liz but jess had a monster crush on him and they even kissed behind liz's back. But i want him to come back and be with jess but that probably wont happen so jeremy should dump jade and stick with jess. Plus evan always went better with liz. Didnt he have a crush on her in the beginning? I want to see jess get in a rumble with melissa and have lila finally stick up for her best friend and not follow the crowd. It just isnt the same without her and jess plotting to steal people's boyfriends. I realize that this has nothing to do with this book but i think everyone should know!
Product Description
multiple books ship as one item. save on shipping/handling charges.
Books:
- Once Upon a Summer/The Winds of Autumn/Winter is Not Forever/Spring's Gentle Promise (Seasons of the Heart 1-4)
- Organic Church: Growing Faith Where Life Happens
- Peace, Love, & Barbecue: Recipes, Secrets, Tall Tales, and Outright Lies from the Legends of Barbecue
- Physik (Septimus Heap, Book 3)
- Picture Perfect
- PrairyErth (A Deep Map): An Epic History of the Tallgrass Prairie Country
- Rendezvous with Rama
- River Road Recipes: The Textbook of Louisiana Cuisine
- Running Scared: The Life and Treacherous Times of Las Vegas Casino King Steve Wynn
- Safe Harbor (Drake Sisters, Book 5)
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