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.

No Place for Magic: The Fourth Tale of the Frog Princess (Tales of the Frog Princess)

Average customer rating:

Princess Emma and Prince Eadric have been through a lot in their relationship over the last three books...
Pure Magic
No Place for Magic?! It was a magical book!
Cute, Cute, Cute
The Fourth Tale of the Frog Princess (Tales of the Frog Princess)

No Place for Magic: The Fourth Tale of the Frog Princess (Tales of the Frog Princess)
E. D. Baker
Manufacturer: Bloomsbury USA Children's Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1582346542
Release Date: 2006-09-05

Book Description

When Emma and her beloved frog-turned-prince Eadric travel to Upper Montevista to ask for Eadric’s parents’ blessing on their marriage, they find his homeland in chaos: Eadric’s annoying little brother Bradston has been kidnapped by trolls! Worse, his mother won’t let Emma use magic, even to rescue Bradston, and Eadric seems suddenly a bit too fond of the girls from his past. But as they travel through unfriendly lands, battle sea-monsters and vampires, and find allies in unlikely places, Emma just might come to see her Eadric for the strong and loyal young man that he is.

With a dose of bravery and a few clever tricks both magic and not, Princess Emma takes center stage again in this utterly charming and surprising addition to E. D. Baker’s fantastic Tales of the Frog Princess.

Customer Reviews:

Princess Emma and Prince Eadric have been through a lot in their relationship over the last three books..........2007-08-12

Princess Emma and Prince Eadric have been through a lot in their relationship over the last three books. Their friendship began as frogs, when Eadric's Frog Prince curse backfired on Emma when she kissed him, and they joined forces to escape the swamp, as Emma finds that learning to hop and catch flies is harder than one might imagine. Next came the quest to turn her aunt's love back into a human (he was an otter at the time), and after that the curse that was destined to turn Emma into a mean ...uh... *witch* after the age of sixteen if she ever touched a flower.

That last one involved a bit of time traveling to fix. Along the way, Emma and Eadric have come to realize their love, as well as find a few odd friends, such as the bat, Li'l Stinker, her vampire mate, and a young dragon named Ralf.

After all of that, even Eadric's parents' hatred of magic isn't going to be enough to stop these two from getting married. Still, Emma would like to have their permission, or at least be able to say that she tried. His mother is less than pleased, however, to find out that her son is still determined to marry her. There are bigger problems in Eadric's kingdom, though, as his younger (and rather obnoxious) brother has apparently been taken by trolls. Afraid to use magic because the trolls can track her through it, Emma must help Eadric find his brother through the use of her wits instead.

This is the fourth book in the Frog Princess series. While the book is very enjoyable, I would recommend reading the first three books before this one. The series has maintained an entertaining tone through four books now, and each book does stand on its own. This one is no different, but there are lots of little things that will be more enjoyable if you know the series.

One thing I appreciated about this book and the series in general is that the romance is well constructed, even after four books. There are some side couples, but the central two are Eadric and Emma, who met in the first book as frogs, and now in this book get married. Their friendship and relationship progress through the books and reads as realistically as a romance can when you're turned into a frog, sent back in time, and suffering from curses.

Unlike the earliest book in the series, No Place For Magic doesn't draw on any particular fairytale origins. Instead it takes place in a world that works by fairytale rules. Fairies attend the wedding, trolls kidnap Eadric's brother, and witches practice "good" and "bad" magic.

This book takes Emma into Eadric's kingdom where magic is feared and gives her new prejudices to deal with. Back home, she is the Green Witch and respected by the citizens-they know she will protect them in times of need. Here magic is avoided, and she must hide her normal usage of magic and learn to rely on herself instead. In typical fairytale fashion, Emma and her magic skills are accepted once she saves the kingdom, just like Rudolf got to play with the other reindeer once he saved Christmas.

On the downside, the series is not overly unique. It takes fairytale conventions and turns them around, sometimes in different ways, and other times in the same old ways. Emma is your standard "doesn't want to be a passive" princess and Eadric is a sweet, "charming" prince, who cares as much about where his next meal is coming from as fighting, and likes to flirt with Emma (though the flirting might be as much for the fact that it unsettles her and makes her blush, as for other reasons). The other characters that surround them are also fun, but this is a fluffy book. It's a "having a bad day and need something to escape reality" read. I do think that as the series goes on, the books find more interesting turns and twists to throw in, and the characters grow a little.

Pure Magic.......2007-05-09

No Place for Magic was a magical book. The ordeals Emma and Eadric have to face are both funny and frightful. Even though I'm a little old to be reading these books I can't help but continue. Eadric and Emma find that they are still in love even after all the trials they face. A perfcet read for someone who likes magic, romance, and tons of fantastic creatures.

No Place for Magic?! It was a magical book!.......2007-04-17

No Place for Magic is the fourth book in the Tales of the Frog Princess series. It is a Fantasy book written by E.D. Baker. No Place for Magic takes place in a world where magic, giants, and dragons are nothing out of the ordinary. The story follows the life of a young princess of Greater Greensward named Emma. The thing is that she's also a very powerful witch. She's known as the Green Witch and is responsible for protecting the land with her magic. Her fiancé, Prince Eadric, lives in Upper Montevista, a kingdom that is not as accepting of magic as Greater Greensward. Eadric's parents, especially his mother, disapprove of Emma because of her powers. But when Eadric's younger brother, Bradston, is kidnaped by trolls Emma and Eadric must set out on a quest to find and bring him home.
E.D. Baker has a way of writing where she challenges your thinking in some way or another. In one of the scenes in particular she tests your trust. Aldrich and Emma had just arrived from a long journey to a small town very close to the trolls' castle. They needed rest and one of the residents invited them into their home to eat and stay the night. Emma immediately finds it odd that they live so close to man-eating trolls and when one keeps eyeing her quite suspiciously, she and Aldrich discover their true identity. After finding this they are forced to choose whether or not to trust someone they know who could potentially kill them, or ruin their friendship with one of their companions. This scene made me feel like I was the one who had to choose and kept me completely glued to the book.
No Place for Magic was very fun to read. It flowed easily, but kept me interested. Unlike many fantasy books I've read it really was a comedy. It made me laugh, but also worry. Reading the previous books in the series gives a much better understanding of the characters, but you can follow it either way. Anyone in the mood for a lighthearted book that's not too long or short, and enjoys the "once upon a time's" and "happily ever after's" will enjoy this book.

Cute, Cute, Cute.......2007-03-11

This is a adorable romantic comedy. The writing style is simple yet elegant. The characters are lovable and strong. The story is lighthearted yet not shallow, and a lot of humor is achieved by parodying traditional fairy tale elements. This novel is the best so far is the Tales of the Frog Princess series. If you like this book try Runaway Princess by Kate Coombs.

The Fourth Tale of the Frog Princess (Tales of the Frog Princess).......2007-01-19

This was a present for my Granddaughter and so far she has not complained about this product.

I received this delivery in time for Christmas as I ordered it rather late. That is good.

The Black Jewels: Trilogy: Daughter of the Blood / Heir to the Shadows / Queen of the Darkness

Average customer rating:

A Snarly Review
A read so fascinating that I had to go there twice... in a row--
Black Jewels-good read
Amazing!!!
Wonderful.

The Black Jewels: Trilogy: Daughter of the Blood / Heir to the Shadows / Queen of the Darkness
Anne Bishop
Manufacturer: Roc Trade
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0451529014
Release Date: 2003-12-02

Book Description

Anne Bishop's critically-acclaimed Black Jewels Trilogy is the saga of a young but still-innocent Queen more powerful than even the High Lord of Hell-and the three sworn enemies determined to win her and gain a prize that could be terrible beyond imagining...

Customer Reviews:

A Snarly Review.......2007-09-25

If I had to sum up this book in one word it would be "disappointing". Ms. Bishop creates a beautiful hierarchy of power with the Blood and drawing their power from Jewels, the delicate psychic roadways of the Winds, and an interesting take on death with the Demon Dead and Guardians. The geography of the different lands, the different races of creatures that occupied them, and the involvement of the Kindred were all wonderfully detailed and fresh. These aspects of the story are fascinating, well developed, and highly imaginative, and I truly wish the actual storyline could live up to this promise.

In contrast of the terrific world she created, Ms. Bishop's characters could not be any more two-dimensional and tiresome. For all of her attempts to write "Dark Fantasy" and to challenge traditional images of hell/darkness (with names like Saetan, Daemon, and Lucivar) she creates some pretty standard, dull heroes and villains. No one hero is capable of doing anything wrong--Jaenelle most of all. I don't think I've read a heroine this mind-numbing in a long time. For a story like this to work, there needs to be actual, palpable danger for the heroine and the heroine's world. There was no question or danger here--Jaenelle was all powerful, pure hearted, and of course could overcome the simple-minded evil Queens. Hardly scintillating material.

So far as writing skills go, I am entirely done with the word "snarl". There are other adjectives to describe guttural noises.

Even on a romance front, I was disappointed. Daemon, the only true attempt at a multidimensional character, felt like a washed-out letdown by Book 3. There was some nice tension from the first book--I enjoyed Daemon's struggle--but it led to absolutely no payoff. When Witch and he finally get it on, it's almost laughable.

In short, the whole story felt contrived. Ms. Bishop creates dark scenes (like rape or murder) with no real consequence (everyone is *really* ok), an entirely dull love story, and "danger" without there really being any threat.

Ms. Bishop is the true Sadi here--these books give the ghost of promise and tease the reader seductively...only to find the results flaccid and leaving the reader completely unfulfilled.

A (generous) two and a half-stars.

A read so fascinating that I had to go there twice... in a row--.......2007-09-23

I recently stumbled onto this particular genre. And I can't believe how lucky I am. Where have I been all my life? It's fun. It's fantastic. It's absolutely amazing to me that someone can create an entire reality like this.

Anyway. I read this particular book from cover to cover and then, for the first time in my life, I turned right back to page 1 and started over. It is that good.

Black Jewels-good read.......2007-09-13

A rich world with interesting characters and a really fresh use of magic--beyond wands and wizards.

Amazing!!!.......2007-08-31

This book is Amazing. The very first paragraph caught me and the book never let go. I am an avid reader, of all books, and anymore it has become increasingly difficult to find a book with the power to grab your attention in the first 100 pages let alone the first paragraph. I will not sum up the book for you; my only advice would be to buy the book. The best way to describe this book is "All Encompasing."

Wonderful........2007-08-27

While I cannot hope to write as graceful a review as every other person before me has, I will try to tell you what I can about this book, and why is should be part of your collection.

The book (though there are actually three combined into one lovely volume) is about a very original world. I won't delve too deep into it, because part of the fun is figuring it out as you go, getting all the tidbits and making your own dreams of it. But, this world, this is what grabbed me the most. It's not like all the other fantasy books I've read; where there's always the set 'bad guy' and the 'good guys' and oh woe is me, someone must save us all.

While that concept is present in this book, it is not drawn out and used as the only tagline. There are so many other pieces to this great piece of writing!

Beyond the world, there are the characters. The deliciously real characters who I myself end up crying for, and getting angry about. Anne Bishop really draws you in and you start to know them so well... there are so many things about them, you feel like you could walk past them on the street. They do things that you think they would do, that you know is what that character would want to do. It is all very well done, gracefully, and well-fleshed so that they are believable, likable, and in some cases, absolutely despicable.

The plot is wonderfully twisted. There are so many strands of it that are to be pieced together, it's like a treasure hunt. And each chapter that gives you another lead, another piece... it's so lovely. And then a few things click, and you mentally go 'ooooh, that's why he did that!' And the way all the conflicts meet up in the end, how everything comes together so well; it's a piece of art.

And the romance, of course. My boyfriend stuck out his tongue and refused when he'd heard me mention that, though I know he was reading it when I slept... but it is a focal point. Enough that women will swoon, but not enough, I think, to turn men away from reading and enjoying this book.

With all the different characters, situations, and happenings in this book, there will surely be a thing for you to love and connect with, something to draw you in. If you give it a chance, I can assure you, you will not be disappointed. So... read some more reviews, think it over, and then do it, and enjoy reading about the life of the SaDiablo line, and all those who are drawn into their plight... :)

Average customer rating:

The fine representation of Shakespearian drama is well done and realistic here.
Brings the story of Macbeth to life
Courtesy of Teens Read Too

Enter Three Witches
Caroline Cooney
Manufacturer: Scholastic Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0439711568

Customer Reviews:

The fine representation of Shakespearian drama is well done and realistic here. .......2007-08-07

Caroline Cooney's ENTER THREE WITCHES tells of teen Lady Mary, a ward of the Macbeths whose life is changed when her father betrays the king and is hanged as a traitor. Mary's sent off the become a maid, but when King Duncan is murdered, Mary finds her new world is again threatened by court politics and intrigue. The fine representation of Shakespearian drama is well done and realistic here.

Brings the story of Macbeth to life .......2007-06-01

Caroline B. Cooney, author of FLIGHT #116 IS DOWN and many other action-packed teen novels, brings the story of Macbeth to life in ENTER THREE WITCHES. Murder, witches, betrayal, battles and even love are themes in this powerful historical tale.

Readers meet a teenager named Mary, ward of Lord Macbeth and his wife Lady Macbeth. Mary is the source of envy and disdain by the household staff, including Swin, the cook who knows about magic, and Ildred, full of sadness and desire for a better life. Mary thinks only of her betrothed and her father, far away while she learns about castle life.

However, a terrible battle changes everything. Mary's father is hanged as a traitor to the King, and Macbeth and his loyal followers --- Banquo, Fleance and Seyton --- are called heroes for killing enemies. Seyton turns out to have dark ambitions of his own and carries evil secrets. Mary now has no future and worries that she herself will be hanged.

When the King is murdered in Lord Macbeth's castle and his sons run away, Macbeth and his wife become king and queen. But something is wrong. Did the Princes or the King's servants kill him? Mary heard the Witches' predictions and knows that the murderer is still at large. Meanwhile, no one embraces the new king and queen. Anyone who goes against them in any way is murdered, and the body count piles up with suspicion.

One day, while riding, Fleance and his father are stopped by supposed robbers. But they are not interested in goods or horses and instead wield axes. Fleance fights and then flees to find the Princes and reclaim the throne from Macbeth. He also wants to learn the identities of the robbers and who sent them.

Living in the castle with the new Queen, who keeps washing her hands, Mary tries to figure out a way to save herself as well as all of Scotland from Macbeth. But who can she trust? The book follows her, Fleance, Swin and Ildred as they sort out the truth and their futures.

Stick with this story through the introduction of the characters. The action builds, and readers soon will be turning pages as terrible evil fights with heroic deeds. ENTER THREE WITCHES may even inspire young people to read (or re-read) MACBETH!

--- Reviewed by Amy Alessio

Courtesy of Teens Read Too.......2007-03-06

Caroline B. Cooney takes Shakespeare's Macbeth (Folger Shakespeare Library) to new heights with ENTER THREE WITCHES.

Lady Mary is set for life. She has a bright future complete with a betrothal to a handsome boy, a castle of her own, and more than she could ever want. When her father is hanged for treachery, that bright future is ripped from her fingers. Instead, she becomes a maid in the household of Lord and Lady Macbeth, a dangerously powerful couple who will do anything to get their way.

As people drop dead and the events from Macbeth (Folger Shakespeare Library) unfold around Mary, she finds that life is harder than she once believed.

This novel is enchanting, but difficult to follow at times. It bounces from character to character within the chapter, allowing you to see all that is happening at once. Ms. Cooney ties the novel in with Shakespeare's Macbeth (Folger Shakespeare Library) using both events and quotes taken directly from the play. This is definitely recommended for the history buff or Shakespeare fan.

Reviewed by: Jessica Cave

Average customer rating:

Prince Charming surely awaits
Your Majesty Indeed
nice story
Different plot from most other charmed books... but awesome!!
Magic Kingdom Like Xanth

The Queen's Curse (Charmed)
Emma Harrison
Manufacturer: Simon Spotlight Entertainment
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 1416900241

Book Description

While trouble brews, a ring is placed --

But evil may have hidden its face.

A perfect prince and love's true tale...

Show the secrets; we must not fail!

Paige has finally met her Prince Charming. Funny, smart, sweet, and beyond good-looking, Colin is fantastic. By the time he's gotten her phone number, Paige is completely smitten. And he isn't evil, which is definitely a plus. In fact, he seems pretty much perfect. After just a few dates, Colin asks Paige to marry him -- and she accepts. The last thing she expects to find out is that not only is Colin really a prince -- of a magical kingdom no less -- but he's already engaged!

So what else is Prince Perfect hiding? Apparently that there are major dark forces gathering to overtake his kingdom, Tarsina, thereby upsetting the balance of good and evil in the world. The only way Colin can save his realm is to marry a magical being by his twenty-fifth birthday. Which is next week. Enter Paige -- and exit Corrine, Colin's real true love. When Leo confirms all this with the Elders, the Charmed Ones kick into high gear. It's off to Tarsina, but will there be a royal wedding...or a royal disaster?

Customer Reviews:

Prince Charming surely awaits.......2006-01-22

The Queen's curse is an alright book. it was a little slow but the novel flowed well. The use of magic was good and Piper's witt is hilarious. All in all if your a Charmed fan then read it.

Your Majesty Indeed.......2005-12-19

Emma Harrison has done a great job in this book. Unlike some of her fellow Charmed writers, she does not hold back on the magical mojo, and instead piles every page of the book with it. This effect, though brutal on screen, is perfect on paper. There is nothing quite like reading through a 200+ page book, but even of you are a fan of it, there is still that little element of boredom. Harrison tries her best to eradicate most of that boredom, noticeably throughout the book, by slamming on the action and magic hard and fast. The end was magnificent, and though the plot was not perfect, the effort put into the book was.

nice story.......2005-10-01

paige is having romantic woes, wondering if she will ever meet mr. right and how will she hide her powers. out of nowhere she meets colin, who is just too perfect. after a few dates he asks her to marry him and is interrupted by none other than his fiance.

of course paige is majorlly ticked off. but colin explains that he is from tarsina, which is in another dimension and that if he does not marry a pure magical being by his birthday, all of the mortals of his kingdom will die.

of course good hearted paige agrees to at least see the kingdom and bring leo and her sisters along for the ride. there they find a fairytale of a kingdom, with bad guys in some of the most unlikliest of places.

the story is well written, it takes you back to childhood where every little girls dream was to meet prince charming. it starts out a little slow and will almost make you not read the rest. but hang in there.

Different plot from most other charmed books... but awesome!!.......2005-09-27

Emma Harrison's best work to date. I enjoyed this book, no doubt about it. It is a story about how Paige finally meets her Prince Charming, (or so she THINKS), she gets the impression of what a flawless person Colin is, but never expected to be proposed to on just the 4th date!! This book is like a supernatural romantic fairy tale story, with the requisite curses and hexes placed on some innocent people, based one on person's nonsensical beliefs, with some "unfair" dilemmas on these people. But what differentiates it from a regular fairy tale is the fact that the charmed Ones were involved!!! You know the usual discussions, bickering, brainstorming, flipping-of-the-Book-Of-Shadows and vanquishing spells. The only difference is that there were no big, grotesque demons to vanquish and no potions to throw at them (those loyalists, Sinjin and his guards don't count).

In my opinion, I don't think this book was impeccable, by any means, as most of Emma's stories tend to an itsy-bit long-winded and draggy, but nevertheless, her writing style packs and amazing load of suspense, unexpected twists and turns in the story and slapstick humor. My main complaint about the book is that it ends with a quick, efficient and impromptu spell, by the Charmed ones, which seems pretty obvious, in most impossible situations. And in some situatuons, like the transferring of powers to Corrine from her Grandma seemed obvious too. Also, what about the other loyalists? I know they were imprisoned in the dungeon, but that's it?! It needs more details about what happened to them. Other than that, two thumbs up to Emma for writing this fabulous Charmed novel!!

Magic Kingdom Like Xanth.......2005-08-15

Just when Paige thinks her personal life is in the dumps, she meets a handsome prince. Literally. She does not know at first but soon learns he is the prince of a magic kingdom. Unfortunately she learns this when his fiance finds them together. But he is sincere. His kingdom is in trouble and it could be saved by marrying Paige.

Meanwhile Leo learns that there is a possible change in the balance that could put Evil in the lead. Seems it is related to the fate of the magic kingdom. The kingdom was originally occupied by "pure magical beings" but mundanes (mortals) have found their way in. A past Queen wanted to restore things and created a curse that would kill off all of the mortals if the Prince did not marry a magic being. Enter Paige.

Palace and city intrigue come together as the Charmed ones learn that the old Queen was not the only one who wanted to eliminate the mortals. A large following of Loyalists are in the shadows trying to ensure the curse goes as planned.

This was an interesting story but it had a feel of having been written for other characters and adapted to the Charmed universe. It could have made a good paranormal romance novel. The powers of the Charmed ones are not used (except to prove they have them). Even Leo doesn't use his except after he succeeds by not using them (for instance only orbing after already escaping in other ways). But still it worked nicely. My only problem was the ending seemed a little too pat. What happened to the Loyalists? Surely they and their hatred are still around. But despite that it was one of the better Charmed books.

Once Upon a Curse (Tales of the Frog Princess)

Average customer rating:

Excellent children's story
Romance at Heart
super book
Engaging read
Once upon a curse

Once Upon a Curse (Tales of the Frog Princess)
E. D. Baker
Manufacturer: Bloomsbury USA Children's Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1582349118
Release Date: 2006-08-22

Book Description

Many years ago a slighted fairy placed a curse on a beautiful young princess--a curse that caused her and all her female descendants to turn into mean, ugly witches if they ever touched a flower after turning sixteen. Now, Princess Emma, who is about to turn sixteen herself, is determined to break the spell once and for all. Emma travels back in time to the day the curse was placed on her ancestor in the hope of preventing the curse from being cast. Unfortunately she isn't successful in her efforts, but she does learn how to break it. Armed with this knowledge, Emma returns to her own time full of hope. But disaster ensues and Emma is about to give up completely--until true love shows itself in the most unexpected place of all.

With a bit of courage, a pinch of luck, and of course, a healthy dose of magic, Princess Emma charms her way through the third hilarious adventure in the Tales of the Frog Princess series.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent children's story.......2007-08-09

We bought the Frog Princess from a school bookfair. I've been reading it to my 8 year old daughter. We both enjoyed the book so much, I bought the next two in the series on Amazon. These are wonderfully funny, engaging stories. This is a children's auther I would highly recommend.

Romance at Heart.......2007-06-05

Ilove the romance in this book.Emma and Eadric
are very funny characters.I love the magic in this book.
I hope to keep reading the series!

super book.......2007-05-14

This book is just one of the wonderful books in this series. An absolute family treasure and fun for the whole family.

Engaging read.......2007-05-06

This was a fun book that has been passed around in family. I read it first and then passed it to my 13 yr. old daughter who then passed it to my 10 yr. old daughter. We've all laughed with delight at some of the exploits our "heroes" manage to involve themselves in. A must read! Grab the whole series while you're at it!

Once upon a curse.......2007-04-08

After an adventure of being a frog with Prince Eadric in the "Frog Princess" and finding a cure for turning Haywood back into human form in "Dragon's Breath", Princess Emma must now travel back in time to try and stop the family curse from being placed; or at least find out how to end it. Emma knows she must end the curse before she turns 16 and marries Eadric because it's ruining her family member's lives and will shadow her and Eadric when they get married. The curse has already taken its toll on her grandma and beloved Aunt Grassina, turning them into ugly old hags because they were in contact with a flower.
Emma manages to travel back in time with Eadric and survive up until the party, which is where and when the curse is placed. She fails to stop the curse from being placed, but manages to find out how to break it. When she goes back to the future in her own time, she's certain she knows the surest way of breaking the spell, but disaster strikes that discourages her. But finally love conquers evil unsuspectedly...

I loved this charming book because it shows courage, love, and determination in the inner self.

Average customer rating:

Alternate title: Witch's Honour
Good, but failed to fulfil potential
"I Play by Witch's Rules, Didn't You Know?"
read entire trilogy
Thin Ending to a Potentially Classic Trilogy

The Witch Queen
Jan Siegel
Manufacturer: Del Rey
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0345442598
Release Date: 2003-09-30

Book Description

Jan Siegel has created one of the most compelling fantasy series in recent memory. What began with Prospero’s Children and continued with The Dragon Charmer now comes to a dazzling conclusion with of The Witch Queen. Magnetically gifted Fern Capel has at last come into her own with her magical powers—and just in time. . . .

It is a fearsome world of witches, dragons, and goblins, where a gnarled tree bears fruit of human heads. Fern Capel believes she has left it all behind. But now that world is seeping into modern day England: The witch-queen Morgus, who had imprisoned Fern in the ghostly Otherworld, has returned from countless years of exile beneath the gruesome Eternal Tree. Stalking the twenty-first century in her Prada stilettos, Morgus has the mind-set of the Dark Ages and vows to rule the ancient kingdom of Logrez, now modern Britain.

Most of all, Morgus wants revenge on Fern Capel. Rejuvenated through sorcery, neither charm nor weapon can harm the witch-queen. She has planted a cutting from the Eternal Tree in the real world and awaits with impatience the ripening of its terrifying bounty. When Fern learns that her enemy cannot be defeated through conventional means, she turns for help to her best friend, Gaynor, her brother Will, her old mentor, Ragginbone, and Maldo, the goblin-queen. Together, they track Morgus through London’s high-society parties and seedy, sinister contacts, until they finally draw a magic circle in a Soho basement. Fern Capel knows that survival is not enough: This time she must win. But she does not yet understand how high a price she will have to pay.

In this thrilling final novel of her acclaimed trilogy, Jan Siegel takes advantage of her greatest strengths as a writer—weaving magic into a modern-day world and bringing vivid life to a host of characters that readers will not soon forget.

From the Hardcover edition.

Download Description

Jan Siegel has created one of the most compelling fantasy series in recent memory. What began with Prospero's Children and continued with The Dragon Charmer now comes to a dazzling conclusion with of The Witch Queen. Magnetically gifted Fern Capel has at last come into her own with her magical powers -- and just in time....

It is a fearsome world of witches, dragons, and goblins, where a gnarled tree bears fruit of human heads. Fern Capel believes she has left it all behind. But now that world is seeping into modern day England: The witch-queen Morgus, who had imprisoned Fern in the ghostly Otherworld, has returned from countless years of exile beneath the gruesome Eternal Tree. Stalking the twenty-first century in her Prada stilettos, Morgus has the mind-set of the Dark Ages and vows to rule the ancient kingdom of Logrez, now modern Britain.

Most of all, Morgus wants revenge on Fern Capel. Rejuvenated through sorcery, neither charm nor weapon can harm the witch-queen. She has planted a cutting from the Eternal Tree in the real world and awaits with impatience the ripening of its terrifying bounty. When Fern learns that her enemy cannot be defeated through conventional means, she turns for help to her best friend, Gaynor, her brother Will, her old mentor, Ragginbone, and Maldo, the goblin-queen. Together, they track Morgus through London's high-society parties and seedy, sinister contacts, until they finally draw a magic circle in a Soho basement. Fern Capel knows that survival is not enough: This time she must win. But she does not yet understand how high a price she will have to pay.

In this thrilling final novel of her acclaimed trilogy, Jan Siegel takes advantage of her greatest strengths as a writer -- weaving magic into a modern-day world and bringing vivid life to a host of characters that readers will not soon forget.

Customer Reviews:

Alternate title: Witch's Honour.......2007-09-16

Witch's Honour

Jan Siegel (pseudonym for Amanda Hemingway) is also the author of "Prospero's Children" (1999), which was chosen by the San Francisco Chronicle and Library Journal as One of the Best Books of the Year, and "The Dragon Charmer" (2000), the two books that precede "The Witch Queen (also titled "Witch's Honour "- 2002) in this fantasy trilogy starring magically-gifted, Fern Capel.

These three books need to be read in order if any sense is to be made of Fern's increasingly complicated love life and her growing power as a sorceress. The first novel in the trilogy, "Prospero's Children" started out as a YA coming-of-age fantasy, choc-a-block with evil villains (a witch, an idol, and an art gallery owner) and eccentric good guys (the Watcher, a female werewolf, a house goblin). Unfortunately, the second half degenerated into a standard Swords and Sorcery fantasy about Atlantis. It's almost as if the publisher said, "Okay, Jan, this is a great novel but we need another 100 pages, and why don't you throw in a Lost Continent. Lost Continents are very big this year."

Nevertheless, read the Atlantis bit very carefully, because the following two novels constantly refer back to Fern's sojourn in this ancient, drowned world. If this author has a serious fault, it's her overuse of extended flashbacks. Her greatest strength is her darkly imaginative blend of worlds (excluding Atlantis): the World Tree (where Fern spends most of "The Dragon Charmer"), borrowed from Norse mythology and inhabited by nightmarish crones; a sinister London on the cusp of the new Millennium, reminiscent of Neil Gaiman's darker fantasies; and a goblin-haunted house on the moors.

"The Witch Queen" pits Fern (also known as the witch, Morcadis) against the ghastly crone, Morgus (World Tree sojourner from novel two), but this time most of their battle takes place in London. Another old enemy, Asmordis has transmogrified into the President and CEO of the Dark Tower, located (sort of) in the City's center. For the most part, he inhabits Fern's vivid nightmares, but shows up in person to provide a surprise ending to this trilogy.

Many readers will feel let-down by the ending, but I am assuming it will eventually lead to another book in this series that might have started out as a YA fantasy, but grew into something darker, filled with horror and ancient bile.

Good, but failed to fulfil potential.......2007-04-12

While The Witch Queen is certainly the weakest book in the Fern Capel series, don't let that put you off-it is still an excellent read. My only gripe was that it did drag somewhat, almost as though Siegel had tried to force tension into it-she certainly could have finished the conclusion more quickly and snipped some redundant characters/subplots.

Why am I bothering to write a review, then, if it's just a repeat of what other readers have said? It's because I was disturbed by one reviewer's regarding the book as 'distasteful'; about 'fear of one's own adulthood'. What's more, they felt the message was to deny one's own power.

I don't feel this at all. The Gift that Fern has is not like 'yer average comic-book power' that CAN be wielded with responsibility. It's an addictive power that can lead as surely to evil as to good, and the using it could ultimately alienate her from everyone she loves. Ultimately, it states that not all capability can or should be used, regardless of your intentions e.g. the One Ring, which ought to arrive with the advice label-"drop into nearest volcano". The fate of the other Gifted characters indicates that much.

If there's any message, it's to be careful with what you're given. Not all powers that we acquire should necesarily be used to the full. There's no wish-fulfilment here, more a realistic summing up of the way in which Fern must approach what she has been given. And note that she does so in her own unique manner-she is a human, not a bosomy fantasy cipher.

I read Prospero's Children when I was 16 and the remaining two books in the trilogy as they followed. They were a refreshing departure from other novels in that they provide a more responsible and dare I say it? realistic view of the gifts we receive in life.

"I Play by Witch's Rules, Didn't You Know?".......2007-02-21

The three-part story of Fernanda "Fern" Capel that began in "Prospero's Children" and continued in "The Dragon Charmer" comes to its conclusion in "The Witch Queen". A young woman now, Fern has resigned herself to the presence of magic in her life and accepted (however reluctantly) that her Gift means that the life of a witch is the only one she can lead. In "Prospero's Children" Fern time-traveled back to the City of Atlantis, where she loved and lost a young man of that nation; and in "The Dragon Charmer" she became the unwilling student of the witch Morgus (known in life as Morgause, the sister of Morgan le Fay), eventually betraying and slaying her tutor in her desire to return to her ordinary life. But Morgus was not destroyed when Fern flung her into the River Styx, and now she has emerged stronger than ever to wreck revenge on Fern for abandoning her.

Fern also has to content with the demon Azmordis, a foe who has threatened her throughout the entire trilogy, his mind set on gaining Fern's soul and power for his own. Lately she has been haunted by a dream in which she meets Azmordis in his earthly seat of power (a giant corporate building, naturally) and signs away her soul. Troubled by this nightmare, and knowing that life seldom ends well for those with the Gift, Fern is certain that trouble lies ahead. Even her brother Will, her mentor Ragginbone and her best friend (the unfortunately named) Gaynor are no comfort to her.

On the eve of the millennium, a masked ball is held at Wrokeby Hall, where an unknown illness strikes down Dana Walgrim - the daughter of the owner. She lies in a deep sleep that she cannot be awoken from, and her brother Lucas is at a loss...till he hears of a similar case a few years ago, in which a young woman also lay in a mysterious coma. He is referred to Fern, the two meet, and Fern is struck by familiarity. Could Lucas be the reincarnation of Rafarl, her Atlantean love? Despite her reluctance to dabble in the dark arts, she agrees to help him rescue his sister; but of course the investigation is connected to the reemergence of Morgus, who has a plan to bring Fern to her knees, one that involves an offshoot of the Great Tree Yggdrasil and its harvest of heads. And in the background lurks Azmordis, whose plans run even more deeply...

Okay, I'll admit it - I have been a staunch supporter for Jan Siegel's trilogy, recommending them despite the rather lukewarm reviews of other readers. I love Siegel's language, her ideas, her ability to put a fresh spin on old traditions, and I especially love the way that reading a fantasy novel by Siegel is in no way familiar - she's no Tolkien ghost-writer. I get sick of unimaginative fantasists who simply echo Tolkien; and thankfully Siegel does not fall into this category. Neither does she pander to the reader: Fern goes through difficult, painful and life-changing experiences throughout her like - unlike the hijinks strewn throughout "Harry Potter", being a witch is portrayed here as a heavy burden for a human being to bear. There are complaints that Fern's story is too depressing and nihilistic, which is a reasonable criticism given the mind-numbing curveball that Siegel throws us three-quarters of the way through the story. But it is a twist that fits well within the scope, theme and atmosphere of the story; it is not done simply to shock or depress us, and it serves a very clear and fitting purpose: to show us just how strong Fern really is, and how devoted to the cause of good. Fern was rather distant in "Prospero's Children", but I warmed up to her more in "Dragon Charmer" - now, for the first time, I admired her, and empathized with her pain. Finally, she comes up with a truly remarkable and bittersweet solution to Fern's conundrum. Well played, Siegel. Well played.

However, there are problems. In the previous book "The Dragon-Charmer", a dragon - yes, an actual *dragon* is released back into the world, a powerful force that was sure to have a part to play in the final installment of the trilogy. Nope - it's barely even mentioned, which makes its central role in the previous story as the magical McGuffin rather problematic. That's not as bad as Siegel's treatment of the wizard Ragginbone and his companion Lougarry, a cursed werewolf. They were introduced in "Prospero's Children" as a wizard who has lost his powers and a woman who has been cursed to bear the burden of lycanthropy. Their relationship and their lives before meeting Fern are initially shrouded in mystery - and they unfortunately stay that way. Why did Ragginbone loose his powers? Why was Lougarry cursed? Who was she before she was a werewolf? How did the two of them meet? There is a fascinating back-story to these two characters that begs to be explored, but it is an opportunity that Siegel never takes. Of course, in any story, there are some elements that are best left an enigma (such as Siegel's intriguing use of Morgus's sister) but Ragginbone and Lougarry have been with us from the first book, and the author owed us some details and explanations. Without it, one has to question why these two characters were even in the trilogy to begin with. Bad form, Siegel. Bad form.

So, "The Witch Queen" is the weakest of the three books, and I have to admit, a little disappointing. Sigel also squanders several other opportunities, including Siegel's established friendship between Fern and Kaliburn, and I'm wondering why she thought it necessary to reintroduce Sysselore. And it takes *forever* for the story to get started - it is not till page 105 that the two foes actually start making their moves against one another; beforehand is an achingly slow buildup to the action. But for all of this, I still recommend the Fern trilogy. It may not be to everyone's tastes since it does get rather dark in places, but it is worth the read simply because of its originality and Siegel's beautiful use of language (which is right up there with fellow fantasist Patricia McKillip). Take a chance on it: start with "Prospero's Children", and work your way through the trilogy.

P.S.: "The Witch Queen" is also known as "Witch's Honour" in some publications, but they are exactly the same texts.

read entire trilogy.......2006-06-27

I recommend the entire Siegal trilogy with the caveat that the books must be read as a trilogy to fully appreciate the story line. In my opinion, Prospero's Children is the strongest of the books, in spite of the many reviewers who had problems with the content. It truly does read (at times) like a children's book, but aren't some of the best books you've ever read children's books? Some reviews have noted the dream-like quality of this series, which I believe only enhances the story as magic (by its very nature) is dream-like (as opposed to reality which is boring and disappointing). When I was done with the series, I initially was disappointed by the ending (which I won't disclose). However, after a little reflection on the beginning (Prospero's Children), I realized that the ending truly reflects the character of Fern Capel. If I was disappointed, it is because I have been conditioned to expect "happy endings" in my fantasy reading, endings in which all answers have been provided. To the degree that this series left questions unanswered, it was a better reflection of reality than the Oprah Winfrey Show. The ending here wasn't sad, but the characters weren't wholly triumphant. (Again, unlike Oprah).

Thin Ending to a Potentially Classic Trilogy.......2006-03-14

The third and final novel in the (recently titled) Capel Trilogy by writer Amanda Hemingway (under the penname Jan Siegel). _The Witch Queen_ is precceed by _The Dragon Charmer_ and the first novel in the trilogy _Prospero's Children_.

Where as _Prospero's Children_ was a well writen and wonderful novel, _The Dragon Charmer_ lacked exactly that; Charm and the same sparkle as the first novel. _The Witch Queen_ the final novel in this series seems to focus all the problems of the secondary novel and send them off to a rather unsatisfying conclusion.

In the first novel _Prospero's Children_; we were introduced to the herione, Fernanda Capel, who started out as a prickly and prude herione who at the end of the first novel; was revealed to be one of "the gifted" or rather a witch. Whose magic comes from the lost civilization of Atlantis, in the first novel Fern searches for a magical key that opens the gate of death itself. Trying to reach the key before the witch Alimon or Alison and her cohort and true puppet master, the ancient being called "the oldest spirit" get to it first. At the last half of the novel and true climax of the story; Fern goes back in time to find a once and a life time love and set in motion the events that lead to her adventures nearly one thousand years later.

_The Dragon Charmer_ took place nearly ten years later, with all the shine Fern had as a child and all the unique voice the secondary characters having gone and in placed a stalled out example of the common theme of this series. That is the loss of shining wonder of youth for the lackluster pain of adulthood. Siegel seems unable to find any positive examples and reasonings for adulthood and leaves Fern stuck as a perhaps older and slightly taller example of her old prudish and prickly motto's on life. The second novel has the secondary characters loosing their unique voices and introduces a truly uninspiring main character to partially narrate the novel for the reader. Fern's friend Gaynor. The second novel deals with the witch Morgus (Morgan le Fay of legend) trying in vain to find the head of the only person in existence to be gifted with the ability to charm dragons. Her reasoning for this is the complete and utter conquest of the kingdom of Britain (Logrez to her). The novel ends with Fern tricking Morgus and burning her alive while the witch crawls away to the river Styx (of Greek mythology) and emernging like Achilles; completely invulnerable from harm.

This novel begins with Morgus crawling from the river Styx, a remade and modern and beautiful version of herself determined to achieve her conquest and gain her revenge on her former pupil. Morgus takes a sappling from the World Tree (Ydragssil of Norse mythology) and plants it in the real world. Where it's bounty of heads that must serve a season on the tree for every evil deed is soon budding into a powerful and deadly thing that will eventually aid in her conquest of Logrez. Naturally only Fern can stop Morgus's evil plan and sadly this is the true depth of the plot of the final novel.

Meanwhile, Fern Capel is little changed from her experience in _The Dragon Charmer_ if a bit older and less foolish in the sense of rushing headlong into something that she doesn't have her full heart in (that is a loveless marriage, her goal in the second novel _The Dragon Charmer_). Fern, now adept in her magic uses it rarely and still is determined to return as before to her ordered and prudish lifestyle. The same lifestyle she had as a teenager. Where as the first novel ended with Fern's potential and hope for the future, the second novel shows that Fern has lost all of this and the third novel here, sets the final nail in the coffin for hope of Fern ever acheving that greatness she had at the end of _Prospero's Children_. This novel seems to encompass as another reviewer said, the epitome of the authors secondary theory that bascially; you'll never be as good as you were as a child. So run, run as far as you can from adulthood as it will bring you nothing but misery.

Fern continues to run from her gift, even in this novel. Not even taking that first milestone step into believing that perhaps accepteing her gift would give her a better overall happiness in life. As obviously she does not realize that her rejection and constant despair over it leaves her miserable whenever it is brought to her attention. This novel introduces no, real new characters aside from Luc. Whom we discover is possibly connected to the once and a life time love Fern found in ancient Atlantis. This novel also announces the return of the first novels looming antagonist, the oldest spirit. An ancient and powerful being bent on complete conquest over everything.

The novel is spent with Fern and Morgus, spying on each other as Fern tries in vain to help save the sister of Luc, her potential love interest from Morgus. Whose captured the spirit of the girl, much like she did Fern in _The Dragon Charmer_; leaving her in a coma. Luc seeks out Fern for help as she is perhaps the only person with experience in this kind of thing and the remainder of the novel is trying to free Luc's sister and once they achieve that the novel spins off into a kind of character analysis as we learn perhaps more then necessary about Morgus. We learn of Morgus's madness and her insatiable desire and obessession with Fern. Her desire to have Fern replace the missing void her twin sister left when she tried to find redemption in ancient Britain or Camelot.

This last novel leaves the reader decidedly unsatisfied at the end in terms of emotional impact though all loose plot ties are just that. Tied off and finished. The oldest spirit, Azmodel's return is nothing more then his usual lame attempts at gaining control over Fern. Haunting her in dream form while Fern in real time, finds rather passionless love with Luc. Who, as we see is hard to truly like and believe as his interesting Atlanteean counterpart.

Thankfully in this novel we see less of the uninspiring Gaynor and Will though the two's relationship has, as other characters in this series. Stalled completely, it's renewel in this novel is like an after thought or regret of the author and her attempts to amend it by throwing them together in a way that seems little different then the simple intial tie they had in the second novel. Basically put, Will and Gaynor seem put together simply to be together. Fern meanwhile struggles to cut off all ties she has with her gift and all the things associated with it. Fern rushes headlong into her past, never truly accepting what she could have become and as a result is a rather miserable adult. Merely going through the motions of life and adulthood. The novel comes to a rather unsatisfying end that does achieve finality in the sense of plot but an abrupt cut off of character development.

Jan Siegel's prose, tone and pacing are as brillant as ever. Truly Siegel *IS* a writer. But her characteres and underlying theme in the last two novels of the series leave the reader considerably down and this novel is reccomended to those who loved _The Dragon Charmer_, but not truly to those who loved _Prospero's Children_ and not the second novel in the series.

Average customer rating:

Magic for all ages
A quick and fun little read!
Something magical, something different
Wow
Smart fantasy

Anatopsis
Chris Abouzeid
Manufacturer: Dutton Juvenile
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0525475834

Book Description

Princess Anatopsis Solomon wants to be a knight-errant. But her mother, chairwoman of Amalgamated Witchcraft Corporation, plans for her immortal daughter to take over the family business. The Queen has even hired a new tutor: a demigod named Mr. Pound. But Mr. Pound's plans go far beyond completing Ana's education. He is searching for the mysterious and powerful Os Divinitas. And if he finds it, nothing will survive. A shocking and powerful gift will catapult the Princess into an unlikely quest through the rich worlds of Anatopsis, inhabited by magic immortals, a rebel army, and the last dog in the Universe.

Customer Reviews:

Magic for all ages.......2007-03-29

Anatopsis is one of those books -- think Philip Pullman's "His Dark Materials" -- that offers something for readers of all ages. For children, the plight of the young heroine and her new buddy will entertain. Teens will recognize the familiar struggle for independence from parents, and may also tap into the topic of environmental hazards on a fragile earth. For adults, the craft will delight: Abouzeid's limber handling of the strands of plot pay out beautifully (especially in a tension-inducing ending to the first half of the book); then, at the book's end, the thought-provoking conclusion leaves the reader with plenty to contemplate instead of a simple fairy-tale result. The dollops of humor throughout also add to the pleasure of the read. I do hope this is the first in a series!

A quick and fun little read!.......2006-07-07

A friend of my mother's recommended this book to me, so on a summer day with nothing to do, I cracked it open and jumped in. What I was met with was much more than a simple, linear fantasy story for kids...it was an engrossing and exciting adventure! I found myself sprawled out on my couch for hours, putting it down only for quick bathroom breaks and snack runs. I highly suggest giving this new and upcoming author a try, you won't be disappointed!

Something magical, something different .......2006-07-02

Are you a fantasy lover looking for something a little different? Not your average boy-slays-dragon-and-captures-the-heart-of-the-princess fantasy? A fantasy, perhaps, with a bit of a dark edge to it? Well, Anatopsis may be just what you are looking for.

Set on an Earth that is either far in the past, far in the future, or perhaps just an alternate reality (it could be any one of these things), the world is a different place from what we are used to. There are two classes of people: those who are immortal and those unfortunates who are not. Immortals control magic and pretty much everything else, but they cannot truly create anything. Normal humans are forced to work for the Immortals and live in terrible conditions. Actually, the entire planet has nearly been ruined by the toxic stuff generated by the magic that the Immortals cast - only a small island area is inhabitable and it is kept that way with a magic spell. The poor humans? They, of course, live outside this area.

Anatopsis is a princess and heir to the fortune and power that her mother, Queen Solomon, has built up by running Amalgamated Witchcraft Corporation. Their main (and really, only) competition is with the Georges family, who runs Consolidated Necromantic Industries. But Anatopsis would really rather be a knight errant, like her father.

When Anatopsis (Ana) turns 13, a strange new tutor comes to teach her - Mr. Pound, who is a demi-god (and the last living god of any kind, all the rest having been killed some time before). If the chilling Mr. Pound weren't strange enough, Barnaby Georges is to be her classmate and her father has been sent away "for her own good" so that he can't interfere with her education. (No one, and I mean NO ONE, dares disagree with the Queen)

Barnaby is almost the exact opposite of Anatopsis. He has no skill whatsoever at magic, even though he is an immortal. What he does have are clever fingers that can build mechanical items and the last dog in existence, Uno (who can, incidentally, talk).

There's also Clarissa, a human girl who is supposed to be Ana's personal maid, but is really her best friend. When mysterious things start to happen to the prisoners in the Queen's dungeon and the children suspect Mr. Pound, the three of them band together to try and figure out just what Mr. Pound is up to.

Now I come to the point where I feel I can't really tell you much more without giving things away. Let's just say that Mr. Pound is up to no good...as in destroying-the-universe no good and that the humans have a few tricks still up their sleeves. It will ultimately be up to Ana to figure out what's best for everyone, because she is the one that holds the key...to everything.

Recommended for readers aged 12 and up, especially if you are looking for a fantasy novel that's a little different. This book will appeal to both girls and boys equally, though girls may get into it a bit more because of Ana being the primary character. There are some dark bits and things to make you think about our own world (the class segregation between humans and Immortals, for instance, or what pollution has done to the planet) and there's not a happy ending for everyone involved (which would have been too pat), so don't go looking for a Disney-type fantasy. I think you'll enjoy it.

Wow.......2006-05-30

This was amazing. Never before has a book such as this hit me with such force! This was an edge-of-your-seat thriller with lots of twists. Its moral is great- its metaphors are fantastic.
This book takes place in the future, where there are mortals and immortals, with the immortals ruling. There are two Ruling Families, both being rivals. When the Princess Anatopsis of the AW (Amalgameated Witchcraft Corporation) and the Prince Barnaby from the CNI (Consolidated Necromantic Industries) have to take classes together with their strange teacher Mr. Pound (a demigod- being not a mortal nor a god) will they save themselves as well as the dying breed of mortals? Will they find the Os Divantias before Mr. Pound destroys all they know and love?
Highly recommended! I could not put this book down. Read it and you will enjoy it!

Smart fantasy.......2006-05-16

Chris Abouzeid has written a smart fantasy that is an interesting mix of Greek mythology and magic-as-corporate-business.

Anatopsis is in line to take over the family business at Amalgamated Witchcraft Corporation. Her mother, Queen Solomon is the current CEO. Sadly, the queen's mothering instincts are focused on protecting the succession rather than real maternal love for Ana. Sir Christopher is Ana's father. He is a distracted but loving mortal, who is away on quests more than he is home.

Her one true friend is the human servant Clarissa. Clarissa regards Ana as an equal, not a "royal" as they plan practical jokes and get into trouble.

As Ana prepares to take her Bacchanalian exams, she finds out that a scary demigod named Mr. Pound will tutor her. He has prepared generations of rulers for the tests. She also discovers Prince Barnaby, the son of a rival family, will join her in the classroom. Barnaby is hopeless at magic but a gifted craftsman and engineer. He views his stay at Solomon Castle as an escape from his own father's disappointment and threats. His witty and loyal St. Bernard dog, Uno, accompanies him.

Though they start as rivals, the kids soon band together and discover the gruesome remains of murdered prisoners in the queen's dungeons. They suspect Mr. Pound is responsible and seek to expose him.

Amalgamated Witchcraft is damaging the environment and experimenting on humans. A resiliant but suffering underclass of mortals is striving to survive in a toxic land.
Mr. Pound's obsession with the Os Divinitas threatens everything she loves. Can Ana learn to control her strong magical powers and use them to save her friends and her world?

I am looking forward to sharing this book with my reading friends.

The Witch of Clatteringshaws (Wolves Chronicles)

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A subdued conclusion to a rollicking series
A great ending to a great series
Conclusion to the Wolves Chronicles

The Witch of Clatteringshaws (Wolves Chronicles)
Joan Aiken
Manufacturer: Yearling
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0440420377
Release Date: 2006-08-08

Book Description

Dido Twite’s sharp wits are put to the test in this new adventure in the Wolves Chronicles. After King Richard dies, Dido’s good pal Simon is put on the English throne, but he hates being cooped up in drafty St. James Palace, and his crusty old advisors won’t let him have any fun at all. If only another descendent of the king could be found, Simon would gladly be replaced. Never short a solution, Dido discovers a lead to another member of the royal line. But no one knows exactly who—or where—the child is.

The masterful storyteller Joan Aiken once again invites readers into a spellbinding world of magic, mystery, and mayhem—with a dose of “proper” English hilarity, of course.

From the Hardcover edition.

Customer Reviews:

A subdued conclusion to a rollicking series.......2005-03-25

On its own, The Witches of Clatteringshaws is a fun, fast-moving, but not overly memorable book. But it's almost impossible to rate the book on its own--indeed, if this is a reader's introduction to the Wolves Chronicles, the book may seem close to nonsensical. But as the closing episode of the Wolves Chronicles, it's poignant primarily because it is the last in the series. Like its predecessor, Midwinter Nightingale, it reads more like a hurried outline than like a full-fledged, fully satisfying novel--the characters are sketched in shorthand, and places are given only the most cursory descriptions. It's almost as if Aiken knew she had one final deadline to beat. Personally, though, I wish the ending had been more conclusive--heck, I'd just like to know exactly how old Dido and Simon are by this point! Nonetheless, having started the series when I was a child, I look forward to introducing my daughter to Dido, Simon, Pa, Dutiful Penitance (remember her?), and the rest in a few years. Thank you, Joan Aiken...

A great ending to a great series.......2005-01-17

As much as I loved this book, it was a sad experiance to read the final page and know that there was no more to The Wolves Chronichles; that there could not be since Joan Aiken died last winter.
Dido Twite is back and better than ever (her grammar is even improving) in this latest installment. She is only one of many highlights. Rodney Firebrace, the not so funny court jester is one and Malise the titular witch who lives in a former Ladies' vespasion is another.
I would reccomend this book to people of all ages because only Aiken can tell a story that would keep adults hooked and not talk down to children.

Conclusion to the Wolves Chronicles.......2005-01-14

With a mix of high adventure, gothic settings, mysterious monsters, and the now-familiar villians who plot to put an imposter on the throne of England, Aiken's Wolves Chronicles come to a whirlwind conclusion. Clearly conceived in tandem with the most recent book in the series, _Midwinter Nightingale_, _The Witch of Clatteringshaws_ features several characters and plot twists that span both books. The indomitable Dido Twite, one of the most spunky, resourceful, and well-traveled heroines of children's literature, sets off to Scotland to find a lost heir to the throne so that her friend Simon can gratefully abdicate. She and her friend Piers Ivanhoe le Guichet Crackenthorpe, also known as Woodlouse, encounter a socially responsible witch who rides a golf club, flesh-eating Hobyahs, and the abusive owners of a retirement home who also dabble in plastic surgery. Meanwhile, Simon piles the English army into two trains, gives a charmingly inept rendition of Henry V's St. Crispin's Day speech, and attempts to prevent a Wendish invasion. Action-packed though this story is, a thread of melancholy runs through it, as the characters dwell on the dying words of Saint Arling and whether anyone heard them. Especially poignant in light of Aiken's death last January, this story demonstrates how, like Dido's Pa's songs, art can cheer us along the way, defeat prehistoric fears, and help us understand the nature of life and death.

The Tiara Club at Silver Towers 8: Princess Katie and the Mixed-up Potion (The Tiara Club)

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The Tiara Club at Silver Towers 8: Princess Katie and the Mixed-up Potion (The Tiara Club)
Vivian French
Manufacturer: HarperTrophy
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0061124435
Release Date: 2007-06-26

Book Description

Princess Katie is thrilled—they're going on a field trip to meet a real witch! But when Witch Windlespin teaches the princesses how to make a magic potion, something goes terribly wrong. . . .

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