History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.

Warrior Woman: The Exceptional Life Story of Nonhelema, Shawnee Indian Woman Chief

Average customer rating:

A Disappointment
Herstory-Warrior, Peacemaker?
No fairy-tale ending for Warrior Woman
Exceptional Depiction of early Frontier Life
Warrior Woman

Warrior Woman: The Exceptional Life Story of Nonhelema, Shawnee Indian Woman Chief
James Alexander Thom , and Dark Rain Thom
Manufacturer: Ballantine Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0345445554
Release Date: 2004-11-23

Book Description

A bestselling master of historical fiction, James Alexander Thom has brought unforgettable Native American figures to life for millions of readers, powerfully dramatizing their fortitude, fearsomeness, and profound fates. Now he and his wife, Dark Rain, have created a magnificent portrait of an astonishing woman–one who led her people in war when she could not persuade them to make peace.

Her name was Nonhelema. Literate, lovely, imposing at over six feet tall, she was the Women’s Peace Chief of the Shawnee Nation–and already a legend when the most decisive decade of her life began in 1774. That fall, with more than three thousand Virginians poised to march into the Shawnees’ home, Nonhelema’s plea for peace was denied. So she loyally became a fighter, riding into battle covered in war paint. When the Indians ran low on ammunition, Nonhelema’s role changed back to peacemaker, this time tragically.

Negotiating an armistice with military leaders of the American Revolution like Daniel Boone and George Rogers Clark, she found herself estranged from her own people–and betrayed by her white adversaries, who would murder her loved ones and eventually maim Nonhelema herself.

Throughout her inspiring life, she had many deep and complex relationships, including with her daughter, Fani, who was an adopted white captive . . . a pious and judgmental missionary, Zeisberger . . . a series of passionate lovers . . . and, in a stunning creation of the Thoms, Justin Case–a cowardly soldier transformed by the courage he saw in the female Indian leader.

Filled with the uncanny period detail and richly rendered drama that are Thom trademarks, Warrior Woman is a memorable novel of a remarkable person–one willing to fight to avoid war, by turns tough and tender, whose heart was too big for the world she wished to tame.

From the Hardcover edition.

Customer Reviews:

A Disappointment.......2006-11-10

I was very disappointed by Warrior Woman. I had read Thom's Panther in the Sky, and it is one of my favorite books. This one didn't even come close. It was boring and soooo frustrating to note Warrior Woman constantly waiting for the white man to keep his promises.

Herstory-Warrior, Peacemaker?.......2006-09-21

My heart was filled with sorrow and pain at the many difficulties
Nonhelema faced as she struggled to fight for peace between the Long Knives and her people. It is excellently written, but I wonder at the title. There was only one scene in which she was a warrior. In truth her main efforts were devoted to peace. Somehow, I feel the title, Warrior Woman, misguides the reader who is picking the book. Time and time again, even when she has to go against her people, Nonhelema choses to speak to white people, asking for peace. Even when she sees family members killed, she clings to a belief in Christian beliefs of peace. It is only at the very end, when she is near death, does she come to realizations that were part of her life long before missionnaries came to these shores... James Alexander Thom and Dark Rain Thom have taken historical information and written a novel of rare understanding and beauty.

No fairy-tale ending for Warrior Woman.......2004-05-29

I told Dark Rain that it would be hard to read yet another Shawnee story, because it inevitably ends in tragedy, and I come away depressed. "Ah," she said, "but Warrior Woman ends on an uplifting note."

More like bittersweet, I think, after reading the life story of Nonhelema, the Shawnee woman chief and warrior. But the story is irresistible, as all Thom historical fictions are. Action combined with deep emotion, love and peace juxtaposed on a canvas of prejudice and war, all in that fascinating period of American history, the 18th century Old Northwest.

Nonhelema was a remarkable woman who gave up everything--her material wealth, the respect of her Shawnee people in the Ohio Valley, and many of her loved ones--all in the name of peace. "Blessed are the peacemakers," she read in white man's bible. The words touched her heart and, like her famous brother Cornstalk, she dedicated her life to being a peacemaker.

Warrior Woman follows Nonhelema through her life, delving into her deep faith in Jesus, her love affairs with prominent white men of the frontier, her family dynamics, and her exasperating relationship with Brother Zeisberger, a missionary at Gnadenhutten, the fateful home of the "praying Indians." As a village chief, Nonhelema is responsible for leading her people in their ancient ceremonies. She wants her people to stay together and preserve their ways, yet she also wants to be written in God's Book of Life. Zeisberger torments her, claiming she cannot have both. She must renounce all her so-called heathen ways, or God will never claim her as one of His children.

She works as an interpreter for white men at the fort at Point Pleasant, along the Ohio River. Some of her people call her a traitor, and they no longer trust her. Repeatedly she is betrayed by those white men she helps, and repeatedly her beloved family members fall victim to the white man's violence and hatred. Yet not until her life nears an end does she decide to never again help the white Americans do anything.

Throughout the book, I want Nonhelema to wake up, to realize the treachery around her, the way white men were using her as a means to their own end. Especially Brother Zeisberger, with his pious, self-righteous platitudes and the way he constantly shames her into compliance. But for much of her life, Nonhelema seems confused. Eventually she ponders, "When war and the Jesus God got mixed up together, nothing much makes sense."

Finally, though, she does see the truth about those around her, and she no longer has a need for Zeisberger's approval. I love her best when she goes to him after a near-death experience and, when he complains that her promiscuous ways have taken a toll on her "comely" appearance, she tells him, "My `promiscuity' always made me radiant. What has `ravaged' me is peacemaking." She puts what remains of her mangled hand before the missionary and says, "Our American soldier friends did this when I tried to prevent them killing my uncle. Such have been the rewards for peacemaking."

Nonhelema's life is far more complex than I can express in these few words. Dark Rain Thom and James Alexander Thom have created another rich narrative, this time a story whose Shawnee protagonist lends a rare female voice to the tumultuous 18th century American frontier. Uplifting? Maybe not. But we're all adults here, and most of us have long ago stopped expecting fairy tale endings. We gain so much more enlightenment from the courageous exploits of real-life figures of our history. Or herstory.

Exceptional Depiction of early Frontier Life.......2004-02-21

One cannot read this exceptional biographical fiction of the famous grenadier squaw without feeling like one of its characters, Justin Case, who while cowardly crouching in the bushes experiences an epiphany to see the remarkable Nonhelema
in battle and hear her voice. That's exactly what happened to me! What a brilliant and courageous and tragic figure she is. Betrayed by the Long Knives. Betrayed by her own. The real gift of this book is the forgotten education we have all missed, no, an IGNORED history that the Thoms now bring to us. Women warriors? Were you ever introduced to a native woman warrior in your history classes? And she lived; she is not invented. She is our provocative American heroine. And she was born right here in Oldtown, Maryland. So beautifully rendered and historically accurate. If the film industry doesn't grab this one, they're crazy!

Warrior Woman.......2004-02-06

I just finished reading "Warrior Woman". I could not put it down, finally a book about true native life told from a native point of view and about the normally forgotten native woman!! Exceptionable, husband/wife team writting!Reading this book makes me want to revisit these places again and say a prayer of thanks, that there lives & efforts were not in vain. Thank you Jim Thom & Dark Rain for making this book come alive with our heritage, the good and the bad.

Mechwarrior: Dark Age #11: Blood of the Isle(A BattleTech Novel) (Mech Warrior : Dark Age)

Average customer rating:

quite good
Coleman delivers with good, old-fashioned Battletech action
Best Mechwarrior DarkAges book by FAR!!!!
A very good book.

Mechwarrior: Dark Age #11: Blood of the Isle(A BattleTech Novel) (Mech Warrior : Dark Age)
Loren Coleman
Manufacturer: Roc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0451459881
Release Date: 2004-08-03

Book Description

The Republic world of Skye is bracing itself for another onslaught from the Jade Falcon Clan. The planet's only hope lies with Jasek Kelswa-Steiner and his Stormhammers-forging an alliance that may be worse than surrender.

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Customer Reviews:

quite good.......2005-08-24

this book is the first that I've read in this series. I've played all the mechwarrior games and this book really did not disappoint. It had some real shockers concerning the plot ( that I could've done without). Over all, the action is good, the intrigue is good, and it always leaves you wanting more.(I finished reading it after a 5 hour binge at 3:30 in the morning.)

Coleman delivers with good, old-fashioned Battletech action.......2005-05-03

I think many Battletech fans, even those less than enamored with the Mechwarrior: Dark Age series as a whole, will agree that Loren L. Coleman is probably the preeminent writer in the Battletech universe. Not only does he give fans what they want - plenty of rip-roaring BattleMech action out on the killing fields - he also ties the story he is telling into the big picture. The Republic is falling apart following the loss of interstellar communications, giving rise to increasingly deadly factional wars all across its ten Prefectures. Blood of the Isle takes us to Skye, an Inner Sphere world trying to withstand the merciless onslaught of the mighty Clan Jade Falcon. As this book opens, Skye has already withstood one attack and now lies vulnerable to the inevitable return of Jade Falcon's superior forces. The Highlanders, led by Tara Campbell, are greatly weakened, the Steel Wolves of the singular Anastasia Kerensky have disappeared, the Republic has sent along little more than one elderly paladin for support, and Duke Gregory Kelswa-Steiner's conflicts with his wayward son Jasek stand in the way of possible salvation. The aid of Jasek's Stormhammers comes at a political price the Duke will not pay, for his son does not share his loyalty to the Republic but instead advocates a return to House Steiner.

The Jade Falcons are a deadly threat, as Chinggis Khan Malvina Hazen foregoes honor and clan tradition for total war and outright conquest. The previous invasion of Skye cost her an arm, a leg, and an eye - as well as her brother; the planet's conquest is something she now takes very personally, and her return is marked by unpredictable and very deadly vengeance on the people of Skye. Before the attack comes, however, Jasek Kelswa-Steiner makes his ignominious yet necessary return to the planet, bringing not only his Stormhammers but the Steel Wolves with him, along with plans for recruiting forces from the Lyran Commonwealth, a move that offers the enemies of his disapproving father a foothold in the Old Isle of Skye worlds. As you might expect, there is plenty of political intrigue buried at the core of this story, as the defense of Skye is a show marriage of convenience likely to enjoy a short and tumultuous honeymoon at best - but the questionable future will have to wait as the battle for Skye quickly heats up in a very big way.

Battletech fans should be thrilled by all of the Mechwarrior action in these pages; the second half of the book features one fight after another, with BattleMechs going toe to toe as military tacticians try to outmaneuver each other's forces. Blood of the Isle goes a long way toward making up for a lack of battle action in some earlier Mechwarrior: Dark Age novels. At the same time, the political and military dealings going on among suspicious allies are brilliantly plotted, leaving room for questions that seemingly must be answered at some point down the line. It is hard to completely trust anyone in these trying times, as each faction inevitably has secret designs of its own vis-à-vis the Republic and its own local interests. It all makes for a wonderfully juicy tale of politics told against a backdrop of good, old-fashioned Mechwarrior action.

Best Mechwarrior DarkAges book by FAR!!!!.......2004-09-01

I have now read all the Darkages books and most have been snooze fests. Being someone that love the Battletech universe I could not resist to give it one more try and WOW what a difference, this is also most the old books, good action never to dull, does not get bogged down to much on the unnecessary stuff. I just hope this continues the trend and the next book in Oct don't go back to the garbage that they called books for the first 10 tries.

A very good book........2004-08-30

After 11 books, I'm starting to enjoy this series more. I really enjoyed this book in particular because Mr. Coleman gave us some glimpses of the broader situation in the Inner Sphere AND the return of REAL battlemechs into the story. Want specifics? Buy and read the book so they'll publish more!! This was a good read, and I look forward to more books from Mr. Coleman.

Dark Lover / Lover Eternal (Black Dagger Brotherhood, 1 & 2)

Average customer rating:

One of the best!!!
Excellent read
utterly hooked on black dagger!!!!!

Dark Lover / Lover Eternal (Black Dagger Brotherhood, 1 & 2)
j r ward
Manufacturer: Rhapsody
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: B000KNMTLU

Customer Reviews:

One of the best!!!.......2007-02-24

I have read a lot of "vampire" romance novels and I am soooo glad I found J.R.! She is one of the best I have ever read. I read all 3 of her books in 2 days. LOVE THEM

Excellent read.......2007-02-11

the characters are engaging, the scenes keep you interested and always flipping to the next page, and at the end, you just want to get the next book. I highly reccommend the series if you like vampires, and even if you don't, and just enjoy a good paranormal romance book.

utterly hooked on black dagger!!!!!.......2006-10-07

i am always searching for really good paranormals.kenyon,feehan and now ward!i have enjoyed this imaginitive,erotic,of course,and poignant series of a world of vampires trying to survive.full of emotional impact,unexpected,well developed,delightful charactors.the names alone are intriguing.rhage,wrath,zsadist....makes you begin to fantasize before you start reading and once you start you won't stop til you finish.i highly recommend this series if your a fan of well written fantasy paranormal genre.ooooh,you won't regret it....

Average customer rating:

loved it....
A Historical Suspense Read!
dark medieval suspense romantic thriller

Dark Warrior
Donna Fletcher
Manufacturer: Avon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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philosophy hope in a jar daily moisturizer

ASIN: 0060538791
Release Date: 2004-10-26

Book Description

Mary wakes in the darkness of a dungeon after being abducted by a fearsome warrior. Suddenly her prison door opens to reveal a large man hidden in black shroud. He calls himself Michael, the Dark One. As a favour to his friend Magnus (from Legendary Warrior), Michael has come to rescue her. They travel across unknown territory seeking safety, and Mary falls in love with Michael's strength and kindness. But when they finally reach the protection of Magnus's home, it is to find that the warrior who had first abducted her has issued a decree: wed him, or the innocent villagers will die. Mary now must choose between her love for Michael and the lives of innocent people. Will Michael be able to save her again...or will a dark secret destroy them both?

Customer Reviews:

loved it...........2005-02-18

This is just a fast and wonderful read, definitely for my keeper shelf.

A Historical Suspense Read!.......2004-12-12

Ms. Fletcher has penned another entertaining read that brings together the historical genre with suspense.

Although there seems to be a mystical draw between Mary and "The Dark One" there is actally different forces that have brought these two wounded people together. This does not mean that they are going to live happily ever after since they are forced to separate and go different directions. Or do they?

Mary and The Dark One are compelling characters but there are moments when the action and motivation of the story drags on. Not having had the pleasure of reading the previous title "Legenary Lover" the importance of Magnus was lost on this reader although I did enjoy this portion of the story. There are plenty of twist and turns and the actual identity of "The Dark One" (he is shrouded through more than half the story) was a bit of a surprise I did feel rather cheated in the end. Or rather felt the ending was anti-climatic. Still I would not dismiss this read out of hand. It did have it's moments and the "true love" that Mary and her dark rescure feel for each other is romantic and compelling.

Official Reviewer for www.romancedesigns.com

dark medieval suspense romantic thriller.......2004-10-27

In the sixteenth century Scotland, using the power of the Church, Decimus kills Mary's parents, declaring they were heretics following pagan ways; he also affirms that Mary be ostracized as the daughter of heretics. THE LEGENDARY WARRIOR Magnus rescues the young Mary taking her to Ireland for safety. She lived peacefully there for the next dozen years.

When Mary is again endangered, Magnus sends his best protégé, The Dark One, Michael to rescue a recaptured Mary. He succeeds in freeing the badly battered Mary who is unable to speak. Though he has rescued many people in recent years without looking back, something about Mary touches Michael's inner soul. Willing to risk his life too free those abused by the Church, Michael knows he would go to hell for her. Mary feels the same way as she wonders if she feels hero worship for her savior or simply is in love with him.

This engaging medieval romance uses an inquisition as a backdrop to a dark suspense romantic thriller. The return of Magnus (star of THE LEGENDARY WARRIOR) adds depth to understanding the likable lead couple though there reactions to dangerous situations seem to ho hum and accepting. Still readers will root for the beleaguered twosome to overcome their enemies and their doubts to forge a permanent binding relationship.

Harriet Klausner

Mechwarrior: Dark Age #17: Heretic's Faith (A BattleTech Novel) (Mech Warrior Dark Age)

Average customer rating:

Not worth it
Much better than Daughter of the Dragon
Building depth and complexity into a fictional universe
Spoiler Alert indeed
The slow decay of a once great franchise continues.

Mechwarrior: Dark Age #17: Heretic's Faith (A BattleTech Novel) (Mech Warrior Dark Age)
Randall N. Bills
Manufacturer: Roc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0451460405

Customer Reviews:

Not worth it.......2006-12-11

This book hits bottom barrel. The writing style is totally unreadable - its excessive in descrition and not in a good way. Not only that, but twice in the book the author switched from 3rd person to 1st person!

I definatly would not recommend the book. Though it sounded pretty excited and definatly seemed to have an interested character to follow in the end you'll be dissapointed.

Much better than Daughter of the Dragon.......2005-10-11

I've been waiting for more background and updates on the current activities of the Nova Cats and the Spirit Cats, and this story elaborates on these factions with a fair amount of detail. The story focuses on Kisho Nova Cat, a mystic that was introduced in "Sword of Sedition". After throwing "Daughter of the Dragon" in the trash, where it belonged, this book was a pleasant surprise to me. The author goes a little overboard on the inner turmoil content, pushing Kisho's behavior slightly beyond believable. However, the story and action provided enough of a foundation to keep my interest. Although not blatantly pornographic, like "Daughter", there is one subtle sex scene that spans chapter 7, so parents, be forewarned. The author aparently also has permission to kill off a couple well-known characters from the MechWarrior miniatures universe. I was very dissapointed in the pointless way they were eliminated. I'm worriedly holding out hope that WizKids and their authors will reveal some actual purpose for these executions, other than to just eliminate factions in their game.
This book does a nice job of illustrating the nobility and pride of the Nova and Spirit Cats, while also exposing the conflicting nature of their eugenics program; the brutally harsh system that the Nova Cats have swathed in a semi-religious belief system. Although not as good as Loren Coleman's books, or "Target of Opportunity", this is a good read, especially for those interested in the status of the Nova Cats and Spirit Cats.

Building depth and complexity into a fictional universe.......2005-09-13

I've read the book, and I've read the reviews, and I felt compelled to write a review.

I give the book four stars out of five based on the fact that it's a pulp sci-fi book, and not intended to be a great work of fiction. If you want great fiction, look elsewhere, but like I've said in other reviews, if you're wanting a good time to imagine somewhere else...this series is a good bit of fun.

That being said, it's also worth noting I've been a fan of the Battletech/Mechwarrior universe since the 1980's. While I sympathize with some of the reviewers here, I respectfully disagree. Having a long series one exciting battle after another is fun, but if you want a series of books to last beyond five or ten books, you sometimes have to build more background, which isn't always going to be done in the most exciting manner.

As one reviewer noted, members of the clans are almost alien. While much attention has been given to their reasons for fighting and their skill at doing just that, why they think and do things differently than other humans just hasn't really been well developed. This book aims to change that, by taking one individual clan member, and showing us his upbringing, his thoughts, his struggles. In fact, by showing us the "heretic," it gives us a much better view of the psyche of a clanner. One of the chief themes of the book is a universal one, "what is my role in the universe." It's one of those things that almost everyone goes through at some point, but the point of this book is that those in the clans rarely if ever doubt their role. The book not only tells us this, but shows us why by exploring the childhood of those in the clans and interactions between adult members.

In fact, looking at the series as a whole, it's surprising that there are children at all in the Battletech/Mechwarrior universe, as they are so rarely seen.

Why four stars? Well, the book was enjoyable and well written (but with the editorial errors as noted, so minus one star), but more importantly it's given me more insight into the entire universe, so after this book I'll enjoy seeing clans more, and Nova Cats in particular. As a member of the military in real life, knowing why people fight is important to me. It will be fun when they go back to their epic battles, but now I'll care just a little bit more since I have a better appreciation for why. That difference is worth four stars any day.

Spoiler Alert indeed.......2005-08-24

The back cover spoiler was QUITE annoying, as I always read the jacket/cover stuff.

I like Randall's previous works, but this one was a little too light and fluffy for me. Not enough battle is not always a problem, but since there wasn't much else going on, it definitely showed.

I was intrigued by the mystic concept, but ultimately I feel let down. This was the first time in all the Dark Age books (or any Btech book for that matter... ) I just couldn't seem to latch on to the story...

Note that the interludes were interesting, and did give some unique insights which I liked... but the "breadcrumb"ing of the past is only going to work for so long... :)

The slow decay of a once great franchise continues........2005-08-13

At one time I looked forward to the release of a new Battletech novel. The writing was, for the most part, enjoyable and the stories were, again for the most part, exciting.

Then came Mechwarrior Dark Age.

I really tried, tried hard to enjoy these books. But each one got progressively worse. The plots, such as they were, became more banal and dull.

Heretic's Faith tries very hard to break the pattern. But, it fails on almost every attempt. By the midpoint of the book, you'll have figured out the ending. By the ending you'll be wishing that you ordered something else. Surrounded by fanboiz and sycophants the current authors fail to realise one important fact:

The magic is gone, and they have no idea how to get it back.

Go buy some of the Original Battletech novels.

King Arthur: Dark Age Warrior and Mythic Hero

Average customer rating:

Interesting and Fun!
Question
A great book!
This is a REally Fun and Educational Read

King Arthur: Dark Age Warrior and Mythic Hero
John Matthews
Manufacturer: Gramercy
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Medieval | Classics | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0517224445
Release Date: 2004-08-03

Book Description

King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table have captured the world's imagination since medieval times. The tales of King Arthur are rooted in history, but over the years the facts have become shrouded in myth and mystery. In this beautifully illustrated book Arthurian expert John Matthews explores the legends that have grown around the king and uncovers the mysteries of Arthur's Britain. The numerous characters surrounding King Arthur are introduced and the facts behind the epic saga are revealed.
•Contains 120 color and black-and-white images
•Covers Merlin, Guenevere, Lancelot, the Holy Grail, and all the mythic search for characters

Customer Reviews:

Interesting and Fun!.......2006-06-21

I was expecting a very different book when I read this! Instead of long, boring text book, I found it fun to read as well as informative. I especially loved the pictures as I love art. The insight on not only King Arthur, but Merlin, Quenevere, and other legendary characters was very interesting. It was nice to read some new ideas about the orgin of King Arthur, however some of the opinions did seem a little recycled. Also included were examples of stories, and lots of citings from medival writers. If you are looking for a good read about King Arthur I highly recommend this. It is fun to read, and also very informing, as well as visually entertaining!

Question.......2005-07-01

Any Dragon related pics? used to dream of that, that was like Arthur, but the book was filled with dragon pics, so if you have any clue, please email me! (please)

A great book!.......2004-12-01

In this wonderful book, author John Matthews presents the reader with Britain's King Arthur in his many forms. Beginning with a history of the Dark Ages, and the early historical resources that mention King Arthur, the author moves through all of the Arthurian legends in their manifold forms. All of the characters you are familiar with are here, and some are presented in an entirely new light. For example, in Geoffrey of Monmouth's Vita Merlini, Merlin is presented as a prophet and wild man.

This is a great book! In a surprisingly small package, it contains a lot of information about King Arthur and the other characters of the stories, going well beyond the stories presented by Hollywood. Also, I must say that the many colorful pictures make this book a joy to read. So, if you are interested in King Arthur, then you really must get this book! I highly recommend it.

This is a REally Fun and Educational Read.......2004-10-08

If you like to read about Arthurian legend and want to see the facts behind the myths, then this is a good book to turn to. It is filled with many written information historians have found as well as famous places during that time (Ie: Glastonbury and the place where they believe Camelot existed) And it is wonderfully illistrated too. Beautiful pictures of archiological findings and buildings and such. IT's such an astounding read as well as fun pictures to look at. Get this if you like that sort of thing.

The Barbarians: Warriors and Wars of the Dark Ages

Average customer rating:

Good Introduction
An excellent book on dark-ages Europe.

The Barbarians: Warriors and Wars of the Dark Ages
Tim Newark
Manufacturer: Blandford
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

Military Science | History | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 071371462X

Customer Reviews:

Good Introduction.......2007-03-29

This title covers a very broad period in history (Rome's first clashes with Gauls and Germans all the way to the last of the Oriental hordes to attack Europe) but presents a good introduction to the subject for a reader with little or no experience in it. The first chapter, 'The Most Terrible of All' gives a brief account of the campaigns waged between the Late Romans, the Huns, and the Visigoths, including the decisive battle of Adrianople in the year 378. The second, 'Fear in the Forest' tells of Rome's wars with the Gauls and West-Germans, like the brutal slaughter of AD 9. Chapter three, 'Business as Usual' deals with the barbarian wars that saw the traditional 'fall of Rome' in 476. Chapter Four, 'The Empire Fights Back' tells the confusing but heroic story of Byzantine Wars in Italy under Belisarius and Narses. Chapter Five, 'The Force of God' tells of the early Arabs, the foundation of Islam, and the fall of the Sassanid Empire. 'The Wolves of Wodan' tells the legendary story of the very-real Vikings and their campaigns against Byzantine, Celtic, French, and Arab foes. The Seventh and final chapter, 'The Relentless Plainsmen' tells of the Turkish and Mongol wars from the point of view of Eastern Europe. The text is supported with 16 color plates by Angus McBride, which capture the barbarians in realistic poses and expressions.

An excellent book on dark-ages Europe........1999-11-02

This book covers the various barbarian invaders of Europe, beginning with the Huns and Germans in the Fourth century and continuing through to the Mongols. The book is written in an easy to read manner, and the excellent pictures in this book are crowned by 16 full-page pictures by the incomparable Angus McBride.

Warriors of the Dark Ages (Warriors of Europe)

Average customer rating:

Were the early Huns, Goths, & Saxons really violent animals?
They're called the Dark Ages for a reason...

Warriors of the Dark Ages (Warriors of Europe)
Jennifer Laing
Manufacturer: Sutton Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books

General | Europe | History | Subjects | Books

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

General | World | History | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0750919205

Book Description

This book examines the barbarians from Europe and beyond who harassed, eroded and eventually caused the disintegration of the Roman Empire. As the authors show, some, such as the Vandals in North Africa, had short-lived periods of supremacy and relatively insignificant effect on the areas they settled; others, such as the Franks, adapted to Roman ways to create the strong foundations of medieval and later nations. Throughout the text, the authors reconstruct the volatile world of pitched battle and invasion.

Customer Reviews:

Were the early Huns, Goths, & Saxons really violent animals?.......2001-03-06

Were the early Huns, Goths, and Saxons really violent animals, or were they real human beings struggling for freedom? Jennifer Laing's Warriors Of The Dark Ages places a new light on early warriors often depicted as mindless brutes by modern history texts, considering politics, culture, and disputes of the times. Essential for understanding the motivations of these early famous warriors.

They're called the Dark Ages for a reason..........2001-02-24

...because we don't know much about them. The authors are ambitious, trying to characterize various amorphous peoples and histories. The chapters and text headings seem to suggest that the reader will find some insight into the cultures and practices of various barbarian groups. However, much of the text consists of listings of grave goods, and the pictures are the corroded armor and shields you've seen in other books before. Scanty information is no fault of the authors, but they did offer chapter titles such as "warfare and society" without having much to fill those chapters except for speculation and in some cases accounts of contemporaries. Which brings me to my recommendations, which is to read "Chronicles of the Barbarians" if you are curious about the dark ages. These are verbatum translated accounts by contemporaries writers, mostly romans. Also you might try "the anglo-saxon chronicle" or Beowulf.

Dark Warrior Rising: A Novel of Niflheim (Niflheim 1)

Average customer rating:

exciting stand alone fantasy

Dark Warrior Rising: A Novel of Niflheim (Niflheim 1)
Ed Greenwood
Manufacturer: Tor Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

General | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0765317656
Release Date: 2007-09-18

Book Description

Orivon Firefist was captured as a six-year-old child by the Nilfghar—the dark elves—who attacked his village by night on one of their surface raids.

Fifteen years later, he is a moon-pale, scarred, muscular giant of a man, who has spent his days at forgework for a dark elf family. He is also forced to use his great strength to shift furniture in the grand rooms of their castle. He has been trained (and flogged and ordered about) by the beautiful Tsarnarra, a lash-wielding matron who is icily cruel, but proud of the slaves that she has trained.

Through all of this, Orivon’s spirit has never been broken. He longs to return to the surface world, even if that means destroying the entire dark elf empire along the way!

Customer Reviews:

exciting stand alone fantasy.......2007-09-10

When Orivon Firefist was six years old the Niflghar (dark elves) abducted humans as slaves from his village Ashenuld. He was taken through tunnels leading to the vast caves where their castles lie. At that time he was unaware that there are two rival groups of dark elves. One worships the Ever Ice which gives them mastery over magic, treats their slaves reasonably well; the other revere the goddess Oline who tortures their slaves in order to insure their master or mistress remains perfectly beautiful.

Orivon had the misfortune to become the slave of cruel Taerune of the powerful house of Everdoom. She tortured him until she thought she broke him. Instead he knows he will only have one chance to escape so he patiently waits for the proper moment. That occurs when the rival House of Ouhlor breeches the magical wards and fierce fighting ignites. While in battle Taerune loses with her only chance for redemption being suicide. However the freed Orivon has other plans for his former mistress; as he needs her to guide him to the surface in return he will let her seek protection from other Nameless deities.

In this exciting stand alone fantasy, Ed Greenwood explores the culture, social mores and customs and strengths and weakness of the Dark Elves in their life underground. The dark elves believe the humans are unintelligent animals with a primitive culture that fails to neither appreciate beauty nor understand magic. Orivon and Taerune are diametric opposites who believe the other's civilization is totally barbaric. He has loathed her for a long time for hurting him, but needs her as they share the same enemies. They reach a truce and he comes to see she is not evil by nature but a product of her environment. DARK WARRIOR RISING is a magical treat that will please fantasy purists.

Harriet Klausner

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